A 64-year-old man was caught speeding in a stolen car, reaching speeds of up to 89mph in a 20mph zone before crashing into a police car in Cardiff. Ian Wakeham was driving an MG 3 Excite with men in their 20s and 30s in the car, when he attempted to flee from the police. The stolen vehicle had been taken from an address in Rumney.
During a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, the court heard that Wakeham accelerated to 40mph in a 20mph zone upon realizing the presence of the police. The pursuit continued with Wakeham driving at speeds of 60mph on the wrong side of the road along Whitchurch Road. The chase ended with a collision between the MG and the police car, resulting in the MG being written off.
After the crash, Wakeham and a passenger attempted to run off but were recognized by police officers. Wakeham, from Aberdaron Road, Trowbridge, denied taking the vehicle initially but later pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and taking a vehicle without consent. Despite having 21 previous convictions, he had no driving convictions except for drug driving.
In court, his defence lawyer William Bebb argued that Wakeham was driving around with younger men and requested that the court consider a sentence that would allow him to receive community support as he was deemed a low risk of reoffending. Recorder John Philpotts sentenced Wakeham to 12 months’ imprisonment suspended for 18 months, along with a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a 12-month driving disqualification.
The incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the consequences it can have on both the driver and others on the road. It serves as a reminder of the importance of driving responsibly and abiding by speed limits to ensure the safety of all road users.