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Drink-driver deliberately crashed into police car causing serious damage following New Year’s Eve chase

He was spotted by an officer running a red light and driving dangerously at 11.25pm on December 31 last year

By Adam Dutton
14th Feb 2022, 2:05pm

A drink-driver who deliberately rammed into a police car causing thousands of pounds of damage following a New Year’s Eve drinking session has been jailed.

Reuben Branford, 26, was spotted by an officer running a red light and driving dangerously at 11.25pm on December 31 last year.

He failed to stop before speeding away from the scene as another officer gave chase in a police BWW.

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Branford’s Landrover Discovery turned into a residential street and as a second patrol car approached in an opposite direction he slammed the car into reverse.

Reuben Branford, 26, was spotted by an officer running a red light and driving dangerously at 11.25pm on December 31 last year (SWNS / Derbyshire Police)Reuben Branford, 26, was spotted by an officer running a red light and driving dangerously at 11.25pm on December 31 last year (SWNS / Derbyshire Police)
Reuben Branford, 26, was spotted by an officer running a red light and driving dangerously at 11.25pm on December 31 last year (SWNS / Derbyshire Police)

He then ploughed into the force vehicle in Allenton, Derbyshire, that had been pursuing him at speed, causing extensive damage to the front bumper and bonnet.

Branford, of Allenton, tried to make a run for it but was apprehended by officers and arrested.

In custody he was breathalysed and blew a reading of 40 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millimetres of breath, the legal limit is 35.

What he was sentenced to

Branford admitted driving under the influence and driving dangerously and was jailed for a year at Derby Crown Court on Wednesday (9 February).

He was also banned from driving for 18 months.

‘It is complete luck that no-one was seriously injured’

Detective Constable Thomas Barry, of Derbyshire Police, said after the case: “Branford made the choice to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol and was driving dangerously down residential streets when officers attempted to stop him.

“He showed complete disregard for the safety of others and deliberately reversed into a police car, in a bid to get away from officers.

“It is complete luck that no-one was seriously injured, or worse, especially with the night in question being New Year’s Eve.

“I am pleased that he has been held accountable in court for his actions, which were wilful and reckless.”

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Related topics:PoliceDerbyshire