Quick-Thinking Police Nab Joyrider After High-Speed Chase
Stolen Car Snatched from Run Engine
Officers in Dartford acted fast to recover a stolen Toyota taken from a driveway in Phoenix Place at around 8am on Tuesday, 13 December. The owner left the engine running, and the car was grabbed in seconds.
Chase Ends in Crash After Dangerous Driving Spree
Just 20 minutes later, police spotted the stolen vehicle in Milton Road, Swanscombe. They followed it in a marked patrol car. James Harris, 29, of no fixed address, was behind the wheel.
Harris bolted from the cops, driving the wrong way down a one-way street and mounting the pavement to escape. His wild ride ended when he smashed into parked cars on Herbert Road.
Charged with Theft, Dangerous Driving & More
Harris was arrested on the spot. He now faces multiple charges including theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence or insurance. Other unrelated offences were also added to the list.
Magistrates’ Court Appearance and Custody
On Wednesday 14 December, Harris pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody. He is due back at Maidstone Crown Court for sentencing on a yet-to-be-confirmed date.