Carjacker 'dismayed' by injuries

Caroline Johnson suffered serious internal injuries

A man who ran over a mother of four after stealing her car has said he was "dismayed" by her injuries.

Caroline Johnson, 45, was scraping ice from her windscreen in Langley, Slough, Berkshire, in December 2008, when Kevin Richardson stole the vehicle.

At Reading Crown Court, Mr Richardson, 34, of Slough, has denied causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.

Karen Napper, 37, of Slough, earlier admitted aggravated vehicle taking but was cleared of two other charges.

Ms Napper was cleared of causing GBH with intent and causing GBH. Her sentencing was adjourned until next month.

Under cross examination Mr Richardson denied he intended to cause serious harm to Mrs Johnson.

"She got hurt because of my recklessness and stupidity - but I didn't intend to hurt her," he said.

Ms Johnson's injuries included a shattered pelvis, two broken ankles, a broken leg and broken ribs.

Medics say that for a short time her heart stopped beating. She remains in a wheelchair.

Mr Richardson told the court he only heard of the seriousness of Ms Johnson's injuries when he saw news reports later.

"I was shocked and dismayed. I didn't intentionally mean to put these injuries on her. There is no way on this earth I would just drive over someone."

Mr Richardson, formerly of Chalvey Road East, has already pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm, aggravated vehicle-taking and dangerous driving.