Ipswich Man Jailed for 18 Years After Deliberate Hit-and-Run on Pedestrians
A 32-year-old Ipswich man has been locked up for 18 years after driving a car straight at a group of pedestrians following a pub bust-up earlier this year. Thomas Broughton, from Woodbridge Road, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Tuesday, November 17, where he was handed a heavy sentence.
Brutal Attack After Pub Row
The terrifying attack happened shortly after midnight on Sunday, March 8. Broughton drove his car on 123 A3, then mounted the pavement on St Helens Street near Elmy Cycles and collided with the men. He sped off through a red light towards the town centre. Just over an hour later, Broughton called police to confess to the hit-and-run and returned to the scene, where officers arrested him around 1:30am.
During his trial in September, Broughton denied deliberately targeting the victims, claiming he swerved after “seeing a flash.” But the jury unanimously found him guilty of deliberately intending to cause grievous bodily harm.
Serious Sentences for Serious Crimes
- Wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm: 18 years
- Two counts of attempted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm: 10 years each (concurrent)
- Dangerous driving: 2 years (concurrent) plus a 16-year driving ban
He must serve a minimum of 12 years behind bars before being eligible for parole.
Police React to Vicious Attack
“There is no doubt Thomas Broughton mounted the pavement deliberately to harm the group,” said T/Detective Superintendent David Henderson, Senior Investigating Officer.
“This was a reckless revenge attack sparked by a minor pub squabble. One victim now has serious injuries, limited mobility, memory problems, and cannot walk unaided.
“The sentence reflects the severity of Broughton’s crimes and his refusal to accept responsibility. I hope he uses this time to consider the devastating impact of his actions.”
