Driver jailed after 90mph chase ends in crash

A "reckless" driver who crashed a car with a child inside after a 90mph police chase has been jailed.

Curtis Harrison, 27, of Odd Down, Bath, Somerset, drove through barriers and across playing fields in a residential area of Chippenham, Wiltshire, on 13 September to evade police.

He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, failing to stop, and driving with no licence or insurance at Swindon Crown Court on Friday and was sentenced to 14 months in jail.

"It is only by sheer fortune, not judgement, that his reckless actions did not result in serious injury or loss of life," said PC Paul Davis, of Wiltshire Police.

Police said Harrison failed to stop after he was pursued by officers for driving with faulty number plates and no insurance.

He drove in excess of 90mph in a 30mph zone on Hungerdown Lane, Chippenham, before coming to a stop after crashing into a vehicle on Manor Road and making off on foot.

Officers found a 10-year-old child in the back of the car and a woman in the front. Harrison was later identified and interviewed at Melksham Police Station.

"Harrison showed a total disregard for other members of the public and those within the vehicle, including a young child," Davis added.

"He drove in excess of 90mph in a 30mph limit, mounting pavements and driving over grass areas within housing estates where children often play or hang out."

He has also been banned from driving for two years and seven months.

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