Nathan Wiltshire, a 21-year-old man from Calder Close, Haydon Wick, Swindon, has avoided jail following a high-speed police chase that caused significant concern for officers involved. Wiltshire was handed a suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to several driving offences at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on December 22.
The charges against Wiltshire included failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance. The incident occurred in the early hours of October 28 when officers from the Dog Section and Armed Response Group spotted a Mercedes vehicle driving through Pinehurst.
Rather than stopping, Wiltshire accelerated, initiating a high-speed police pursuit. Witnesses reported that he drove down Whitworth Road at twice the speed limit before swerving onto Thames Avenue, where he lost control and crashed into a metal fence.
Wiltshire’s sentence includes a two-year driving ban and an extended driving retest. He was also given a 36-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and must complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £85 in court costs and a £187 surcharge.
PC Head criticised Wiltshire’s driving as “dangerous” and highlighted the risks involved. He stated, “At one particularly hazardous point, the vehicle mounted the pavement near a pub, causing damage to a footpath metal fence and deploying the airbags. It is fortunate that he didn’t injure himself, the passengers in the vehicle, or any other road user.”
Wiltshire Police have urged the public to report any illegal or dangerous driving they witness. Members of the public are encouraged to call 101 with details such as vehicle descriptions and registration numbers. In cases where a crime is in progress, they should dial 999 immediately to help ensure road safety.
Originally published by UKNIP.
