Reading Man Jailed for Dangerous Driving and Drug Dealing
Benjamin Critchley, 37, from Maine Street, Reading, has been locked up for 26 months at Reading Crown Court on 27 April.
Multiple Charges After High-Speed Police Chase
Critchley pleaded guilty to a string of offences including dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, causing over £5,000 damage to a vehicle, possession with intent to supply cannabis, involvement in Class B drug supply, and possession of criminal property.
In January 2023, Critchley was driving a grey Range Rover with false number plates when he refused to stop for police. His vehicle then smashed into a white van on the IDR slip road. Unharmed, the van driver watched as Critchley fled down the A33.
Police Chase Ends in Arrest with Drugs and Cash Found
The abandoned Range Rover was later found unlocked on Boulton Road. Police tracked Critchley down nearby as he attempted to escape in a taxi.
At arrest, officers found £1,145 in cash and a mobile phone containing messages linked to drug supply. Further searches at his home uncovered cannabis worth £5,600 and drug-dealing paraphernalia. Notably, the Range Rover was registered as stolen.
Strong Police Message to Drug Dealers
Detective Constable Aimee Usher of Reading Stronghold Team said: “We will proactively and robustly target and prosecute offenders. Our efforts are both visible and covert, aimed at disrupting and pursuing those involved in drug supply.”
“Information from the public is crucial in building intelligence and launching effective investigations.”
Critchley was charged on 16 January and remanded in custody. He admitted all charges by 20 February. Fortunately, the van driver was not injured during the incident.
