Motorist who led police on chase had cannabis

A driver led police on a high-speed chase across Dundee before being caught with cannabis worth hundreds of pounds.

Christopher Forsyth’s terrified girlfriend sat in the passenger seat with her head in her hands as he blitzed through multiple streets in the city.

The 23-year-old was placed on supervision after admitting the offences at Dundee Sheriff Court.

Forsyth was spotted driving on Arklay Street by police who happened to be attending another incident.

Officers pulled alongside Forsyth but he immediately sped off.

Fiscal depute Emily Hood said: “Blue lights were activated which the accused failed to stop for.

“Officers observed him to be travelling at grossly excessive speeds for the 30mph restriction.

“The accused’s girlfriend put her head in her hands due to the accused’s driving.”

Forsyth parked on Elgin Terrace prior to being arrested.

He was searched and found with 65g of cannabis worth around £425.

After being cautioned and charged, Forsyth said: “Was just smoking, that’s all.”

Forsyth, of Eastwell Road, pled guilty to driving a car dangerously at grossly excessive speeds in built-up areas while being followed by police with blue flashing lights on April 1 2019.

Forsyth also admitted being uninsured and possessing the Class B drug.

Sheriff Alison Michie placed Forsyth on a community payback order with supervision for 18 months and an order to participate in the Venture Trust programme.

Forsyth was also banned from driving for 12 months.