L-driver in police chase after flouting lockdown

Newcastle Crown Court heard the vehicle came to the attention of the police near Penshaw monument in Sunderland because it was not insured.

When officers tried to pull thecarover,19-year-oldMcArdledroveoffatspeed,travelled at up to 50mph in 30mph zones, went through two red lightsandrefusedtopullover.

Prosecutor Neil Pallister told the court: "Officers deployed a stinger device and the Hyundai drove over it and it began to slow right down.

"Apoliceofficerwasableto pull his vehicle in front of the Hyundai and there followed a collision between the police vehicle and the Hyundai as it came to a stop, causing minor damage to both vehicles."

McArdle, of Athol Park, Sunderland, admitted he had "panicked" and tried to get away from the police because the car was not insured.

He pleaded guilty to dangerousdriving,drivingwithno insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

Mr Recorder Craig Hassall said: "It was the 19th of April, people were not supposed to be making any journeys that were not essential."

The judge sentenced McArdle to a 12-month community order with rehabilitationrequirements,180-hours unpaidwork,a12-monthroad ban and forfeited the car.

The judge told him: "You panicked and you did somethingthatwascompletelystupid. Getting into the car in the first place was fairly stupid."

Annalisa Moscardini, defending, told the court: "He was out with a group of friends, I think he was missing social interaction.

"There's no suggestion there was anything untoward other than driving in the car. Heacceptsheshouldnothave been out."

Miss Moscardini said McArdle has never been in trouble before, adding: "This was stupid and dangerous on his part and he is very, very regretful of his actions that day.

"Hehasneverbeenintrouble with the police at all."