Thomas Burn, 36, of Stanley Crescent, West Wylam, Northumberland, has avoided an immediate prison sentence after leading police on a 130mph chase on the A69. He was found to be frothing at the mouth upon arrest and had cannabis and amphetamine in his vehicle.
Details of the Chase
On May 15 this year, police on duty spotted Burn driving a Vauxhall Insignia on the A69. The car had been flagged as potentially being driven by a drink or drug driver earlier that night. Officers attempted a tactical stop by boxing in the car and activated their blue lights and sirens. However, Burn deliberately made contact with one of the police vehicles at around 56mph and forced his way out of the attempted stop. One police driver had to take action to stabilise his car to avoid colliding with the central reservation.
Officers pursued Burn, who turned towards Hexham before performing a U-turn and heading east back on the A69. Police had to exceed 130mph to keep up with him. The court heard that his driving was described as "appalling," struggling to control the car and swerving to prevent officers from passing. At one point, he drove in the middle of the road approaching a blind crest. A HGV was coming the other way, and Burn had to swerve back onto the correct side to avoid a potentially "catastrophic" collision.
Arrest and Evidence
Burn eventually stopped voluntarily but resisted arrest, dragging an officer's hand on the ground, causing abrasions. He caused similar injury to another officer. Police noted a "strong odour" in the car and on him, and observed white froth on his lips. Cannabis and amphetamine were found in the car. He later refused to provide a specimen of blood.
Sentencing and Defence
Burn, who has 24 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, resisting police, failing to provide a specimen, and possessing drugs. He was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, with 250 hours of unpaid work. He was also banned from driving for two years, must take an extended driving test, and pay £150 in costs.
Freddie Adams, defending, said: "I've told him he is very lucky he is still here today. The speed he is going at, he could've very easily killed himself or seriously injured or killed another road user. Fortunately the pursuit came to a stop voluntarily. It seems to have been an act really of madness or impulsivity. He said it was blind panic where he felt the need to try to escape the situation."
Mr Adams added that Burn is now earning £450 a month as a binman and described the offences as a "blip on him living a very law-abiding life."
