A drink-driver who fled police officers in Telford, leading them on a chase at speeds of up to 100mph, has been jailed for 10 months at Shrewsbury Crown Court.
Rob Edwards, prosecuting, told the court how police officers spotted 35-year-old Steven Gwilliam pulling out of a pub car park on December 16. They attempted to flag him down by flashing the blue lights of their patrol vehicle, however instead of pulling over, he sped away.
The officers pursued him, ultimately involving three police cars in the chase through Oakengates and Priorlee where Gwilliam was seen driving his van at 80mph in a 30mph zone. He went through a red light before turning onto the M54 where he reached speeds of up to 100mph.
“It was decided for safety that there had to be a tactical impact and a police car emerged from a side road and collided with the van, bringing it to a stop,” said Mr Edwards, adding: “Conditions were icy with patches of snow still on parts of the road.”
Once the police officers had forced Gwilliam to a stop, he was breathalysed and found to have 60mcg alcohol per 100ml breath – almost twice the legal limit of 35mcg. He was also found to have no tax, no insurance, no MOT, and to be driving with false number plates.
Peter Hemming, acting in Gwilliam’s defence, told the court his client had seen the officers trying to flag him down, but had panicked, knowing he had been drinking and was using false plates to avoid paying insurance.
Judge Peter Barrie said on sentencing that Gwilliam’s driving had been highly dangerous.
“It is only by good fortune that this did not result in a serious injury or worse,” he added.
Gwilliam pleaded guilty to drink-driving, driving without insurance, tax, or MOT, and dangerous driving before being sentenced to 10 months in jail and receiving a two-year driving ban.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
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