Teen banned from roads

COURT REPORTER

A Coatbridge teen led police on a high-speed chase through the town before crashing into another car.

Reese Blackwell, 19, was spotted travelling at pace by cops near the Faraday retail park on June 25.

The Gar turk St reet resident failed to stop when instructed and instead began to drive erratically.

He caused other motorists to take evasive action, entered roundabouts on the wrong side and drove along pavements before finally slamming into another vehicle.

At Airdrie Sheriff Court the procurator fiscal said: were on patrol when they observed a vehicle travelling at speed.

“A check was carried out and they found no insurance.

“They asked the accused to stop the vehicle but he made off at speed, leading police to activate their blue lights and pursue him.

“He overtook vehicles by entering the wrong side of the road and approached Whifflet Street roundabout before entering it on the opposite side.

“He continued to drive forwards towards oncoming traffic, causing them to swerve out the way.

“He carr ied on to Dundyvan Road and continued straight across straight along it to avoid a back-up of traffic.

“At Bl a i rhill St reet roundabout, he collided with a witness’ vehicle while negotiating the turn.

“He was apprehended before being cautioned and charged.”

Addressing Blackwell, Sheriff Frank Pieri said: “I’ll impose supervision to last for 18 months.

“You’ll also carry out 150 hours of unpaid work in the next 12 months.

“I’ve reduced this from 200 because of your plea.

“I’m also disqualifying you from driving for 18 months, again reduced, this time from two years.

“You must also take the