Unlicensed driver sped off at 70mph when he saw police
AN unlicensed driver who led police on a 70mph chase said he panicked when he saw them.
Lewis Bennett, 21, of New Laithe Road in Lowerhouses, caught the attention of the officers on a main road shortly after 10am on December 22.
They were carrying out routine checks on vehicles in Leeds Road, Dewsbury, and decided to pull over his Volkswagen Bora.
However, as the officers attempted to catch up with Bennett he sped away from them, Kirklees Magistrates’ Court in Huddersfield was told.
Prosecutor Nadine said: “The conditions of the road were described as wet and his speed was in excess of 70mph.
“He went onto the wrong side of the road and overtook a recovery wagon at speed when the limit was 30mph.
“There was a deliberate disregard for the safety of others.”
Bennett came to a stop himself after four minutes of being pursued by the officers.
Mrs Clough said: “He told police that he was just scared. He said he panicked when he saw them and put his foot down.”
Bennett pleaded guilty to offences of dangerous driving, using a vehicle without insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.
His solicitor Rachel Smith said: “Clearly there was a police pursuit in excess speed in a built up area.
“The guidelines suggest crown court and I think the best option is to commit this matter to crown court.”
Magistrates told Bennett that he will be sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on January 31. He was banned from driving in the interim.