A man who was banned for drug driving got straight back in his car after appearing in court – and led North Yorkshire Police on a pursuit in which he hit speeds of 145mph.
Jason Ryder, 45, of Evenwood, Bishop Auckland, was arrested last August for drug driving.
On 20 March Harrogate Magistrates disqualified him from driving for 12 months.
But Ryder left the court building, got into a black Audi A3, and drove off.
When North Yorkshire Police caught up with him and requested him to stop, he ignored them.
Ryder then drove dangerously at speeds of up to 145mph, weaving in and out of traffic, along the A59, A1M northbound and A6055 towards Northallerton.
Other road users had to take evasive action to avoid a crash.
Police then deployed a stinger across the road. This burst the Audi’s tyres and brought the car to a stop.
Ryder was arrested. Today (Thursday) he pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified, dangerous driving and failing to stop.
He was jailed for ten months at York Crown Court.
Traffic Sergeant Paul Cording said: “It is extremely fortunate that no one was injured as a result of Ryder’s actions.
“Not only did he put other road users at huge risk due to the dangerous manner of his driving, he also showed a complete disregard for the judicial system.”