Leatherhead Man Jailed for Two Years After High-Speed Police Chase
Reckless Driver Caught After Dangerous Pursuit
Nicholas Hazell, 37, of Aperdele Road, Leatherhead, has been locked up for two years following a reckless police chase earlier this year. Hazell was found guilty of dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, possession of an offensive weapon, driving while disqualified, driving without a valid licence, and refusing to provide a breath or blood sample.
70mph in a 30mph Zone Sparks Police Hunt
The drama unfolded in the early hours of 30 May when officers on mobile patrol in Epsom spotted Hazell’s vehicle. His number plate triggered ANPR alerts due to a prior failure to stop. Hazell then sped off, pushing his car to 70mph in a 30mph zone before crashing on Chatsworth Road.
He tried to make a getaway on foot but was quickly found and arrested nearby.
Denial, Drugs, and a Weapon
At first, Hazell denied involvement despite police finding his personal items in the car. In custody, he changed his story, claiming he was just a passenger. He also dropped a sachet of white crystals during detention, later identified as crystal meth.
A roadside drug test showed he was driving under the influence, and a wooden cosh was discovered inside the vehicle.
Police Warn: Dangerous Driving Will Not Be Tolerated
PC Gemma Morgan said: “Hazell’s reckless driving could have seriously injured or even killed an innocent member of the public. I hope this sentence reassures the public that offences such as these will not be tolerated.”
Hazell was convicted at Guildford Crown Court on 13 November after a three-day trial and sentenced to two years behind bars.
