Daniel Cartwright, a constable with Bedfordshire Police, denied causing the death of 16-year-old Ryley Hutson by dangerous driving at Nottingham Crown Court on September 11, 2026.
Cartwright, 31, appeared in court and confirmed his name before entering his not guilty plea. The court heard that he was driving a Vauxhall Astra at the time of the incident. He was off-duty when the collision occurred in Bramcote, Nottingham, in September of the previous year.
Ryley Hutson was pronounced dead at the scene. Cartwright, who resides in Kettering, Northamptonshire, was charged in July in connection with the teenager's death. He was bailed by the judge to appear at the same court for a hearing on December 18, with a trial date set for January 11 of the following year.
A large number of Ryley's family and friends were present in the public gallery during the hearing. Detective Inspector Jamie Moore of Nottinghamshire Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit stated that the incident was tragic and had a devastating impact on Ryley's family. He added that the family had been updated on the investigation and that thoughts remained with them.
An online fundraiser organized to support Ryley's funeral and memorial has raised over £4,000. Ryley's aunt, who launched the fundraising page, described him as "full of life, laughter, and love - a cheeky soul who left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him." She further commented on the unimaginable pain of losing a child and the unexpected financial costs the family is now facing. The funds are intended to cover funeral costs and a memorial to honor Ryley's life.