A 31-year-old Swindon man has been banned from driving following an incident in the early hours of March 4th when the car he was driving crashed into a shop front in Cricklade Road, during a police pursuit.
It is estimated that he caused approximately £100,000 damage to Michael’s Workwear.
Wells was sentenced on Monday at Swindon Crown Court.
The court heard how Liam Wells came to the attention of police officers in an unmarked police car when he was seen driving without lights in Pinehurst Road, Swindon.
Wells failed to stop after the officers activated their car’s blue lights and siren. He drove away towards Cricklade Road, at one point travelling at 78mph in a 30mph zone before the driver lost control and the car collided with a shuttered shop front.
At an earlier hearing, Wells pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, drug driving, driving uninsured and without a licence. He expressed remorse for his actions, personally apologising to the owner of Michael’s Workwear.
He was sentenced to:
- 16 months custody suspended for two years.
- A two year driving disqualification, with a requirement to pass an extended driving test.
- 30 months rehabilitation activity requirement
- Attend a thinking skills programme.
- He was also ordered to pay £425 court costs.
PC Sean Williams of the Wiltshire Police Serious Collision Investigation Team said: “Wells showed complete disregard to members of the public when he decided to drive away from officers at speeds far exceeding the limit for the roads he was on.
“It was a matter of luck that someone was not seriously hurt in this collision. The car crashed next door to a takeaway with numerous people inside at the time.
“When I approached the scene shortly after the collision, I was fully expecting to be confronted by at least one fatality.
“I hope this sentence sends a clear message that such reckless driving is entirely unacceptable.”
In summing up, the Judge Jason Taylor KC said: “It was extremely fortunate you did not hit the pizza shop next door which the officers noted had a number of customers within. The officers themselves were just about to desist with the pursuit due to the danger you posed to the public.
“You were knocked unconscious, it could have been very different. You were tested for drugs. it was negative but to your credit you volunteered cocaine use early that evening.
“You made full admissions in the interview. You also apologised for your actions personally.
“The aggravating features are mitigated by your co-operation and your full admissions and genuine remorse. “
