Driver jailed over 12-mile chase

A disqualified driver who sparked a 12 mile police chase across Bedfordshire has been jailed for 20 months.

John Lee, 27, of Potton, Beds, was spotted by an officer who knew he was banned from driving. Lee then sped off, followed by the patrol car.

During the chase, Lee crashed his car into a Nissan Micra. When he stopped, he jumped into his passenger seat.

On Friday, Luton Crown Court heard that Lee, who admitted dangerous driving, suffered from depression.

Stephen Akinsanya, defending said after the death of Lee's father when he was 20 years old he began taking illegal drugs.

Lee had been in Bedford on 11 January to buy drugs, Mr Akinsanya said. When he was seen by police he panicked and tried to escape, he added.

In court, Lee, who also admitted driving while disqualified, failing to stop and having no insurance, had his licence endorsed.

Last February, Lee had been banned from driving for two years for motoring offences.