Banned driver crashed into tree during rush-hour police chase
and live on Freeview channel 276
Darren Lindsay refused to stop for police when officers spotted him driving dangerously on his way to work.
At the time of the incident, July 19 this year, Lindsay was banned from driving as he had not taken an extended re-test after receiving a driving conviction in 2014.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdOlivia Murray, prosecuting, said Lindsay was seen driving his Peugeot through Castleford close behind the vehicle in front of him.
He then sped off when officers put on blue lights and sirens, reaching 50mph in a 30mph area.
The prosecutor said Lindsay left a roundabout without indicating near to the ASDA store at Glasshoughton.
The area was busy with vehicles and pedestrians at the time.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdHe then drove along Smawthorne Lane before losing control and hitting a tree on Ashton Street.
Camera footage showed that an elderly pedestrian had walked past the crash scene 27 seconds earlier.
Lindsay, 28, of Dickinson Terrace, Featherstone, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, having no insurance and driving while disqualified.
Probation officer Malcolm Brown told the court Lindsay was a self-employed contractor for the local authority and had been on a day off work.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdMr Brown said Lindsay had decided to drive after being contacted by his boss for a work key. Lindsay was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.
He was ordered to do 120 hours of unpaid work and take part in a 15-day rehabilitation requirement.