Asda Van Thief Jailed After Daring High-Speed Chase in Sussex
Early Morning Van Heist at Eastbourne Retail Park
A 30-year-old man was slammed behind bars for over two years after stealing an Asda delivery van and leading police on a nail-biting chase through East Sussex.
The drama kicked off at 6.20am on Friday, 30 January, when officers were scrambled to Sovereign Harbour Retail Park on Pevensey Bay Road, Eastbourne. Quick reports had come in of an Asda van being nicked.
Police Pursuit Ends in Newhaven
Officers soon spotted the stolen van and launched a tactical pursuit. The chase ended when the vehicle was forced to a stop on The Fairway, Newhaven.
A roadside drug test later revealed the driver was under the influence of cocaine, adding to his litany of crimes.
Thief Sentenced: Theft, Dangerous Driving, and More
Shane Brett, 30, homeless at the time, was arrested on the spot. The very next day, he appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court facing charges including motor vehicle theft, burglary other than a dwelling, dangerous driving, and driving without insurance.
Brett pleaded guilty and was remanded in custody. On 12 March, Lewes Crown Court handed him a hefty 26-month jail sentence and slapped him with a four-year driving ban.
Sussex Police praised their quick and tactical response for safely ending the chase and keeping the public safe from harm.
