Audi driver hit ‘atrocious’ speed of 152mph on A55
An Audi driver who feared he would lose his licence for doing just over 70mph on a dual carriageway at night panicked and made off from police at 152mph. Iwan Thomas, 26, a bricklayer, of Hartington Street, Chester, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the A55[1] at Colwyn Bay[2] on July 8 and failing to stop when required.
Llandudno[3] magistrates court chairman David Davies told him: ”Your driving was atrocious and reaching speeds of 152mph beggars belief. In my 30 years as a magistrate, I have never dealt with such a case of excessive speed.”
A 24 weeks jail term, suspended for 18 months, was imposed with a six-month 9pm-6am curfew. Thomas was also banned for two years with a re-test and must pay £239 costs.
“It was an absolutely stupid action that you undertook,” the chairman added.
Prosecutor Shane Maddocks said the black Audi A3 was believed, mistakenly, to have been stolen and a PC in a high-performance patrol car had attempted to stop Thomas, illuminating blue lights. The road was quiet because it was the early hours.
Mr Maddocks said the police car had reached 152mph but was unable to catch up with the Audi and the officer was advised to stop the pursuit because it was too dangerous.
“This defendant is extremely lucky no-one has been hurt or killed,” the prosecutor declared. Thomas had no previous convictions.
Derek MacDonald, defending, said Thomas had nine points on his licence and panicked when the police car appeared. His speed got “greater and greater.” Thomas had a hand injury and was unable to work at present.
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References
- ^ A55 (www.dailypost.co.uk)
- ^ Colwyn Bay (www.dailypost.co.uk)
- ^ Llandudno (www.dailypost.co.uk)
- ^ Lucy Letby to die behind bars as killer nurse is jailed (www.dailypost.co.uk)
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