A cocaine and alcohol-fuelled driver who crashed into a police vehicle and caused life-changing injuries to an officer has been jailed for three years and two months. Shaun Orchard, 23, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and causing serious injury.
The collision occurred during a high-speed pursuit in Stockport in the early hours of 22 April last year. Orchard had stolen his stepfather's Mercedes after drinking and taking cocaine. Police tracked him down and he led officers on a chase, reaching speeds of up to 120mph on the M60 before exiting onto Hyde Road, where he drove through a red light and collided with tactical pursuit officer PC Rushton's vehicle.
PC Rushton sustained multiple serious injuries, including fractured ribs, a complex ankle fracture, a fractured arm, and a ruptured bladder leading to an internal hernia. He spent time in hospital and has returned to work on restricted duties, but struggles with physical and emotional scars.
In a victim impact statement read to Minshull Street Crown Court, PC Rushton said: 'I was proud to serve as a police officer... That all changed because of the defendant's selfish and reckless actions.' He described reliving the crash and said he no longer recognises the person he used to be.
The court heard that Orchard showed no remorse at the scene, shouting and being abusive to police while in hospital. His barrister said he deeply regrets his actions and 'would wind the clock back' if possible. Orchard was also banned from driving for five and a half years.
