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Teenager sentenced for armed robbery and high-speed chase in Inverness

William MacLeod, 19, receives over four years for a series of crimes including armed robbery and dangerous driving.

Teenager involved in armed robbery and chase in Inverness
A teenager faces sentencing after a dramatic armed robbery and high-speed chase in Inverness.

A 19-year-old man, William MacLeod, has been sentenced to over four years in prison following a series of alarming incidents that included an armed robbery and a high-speed police chase in Inverness. The events unfolded on May 9, when MacLeod targeted the Esso Kessock garage, brandishing what appeared to be a firearm and demanding cash from the terrified staff.

Details of the robbery

MacLeod’s crime spree began with a carjacking, where he stole a Volvo from a woman parked outside a Tesco store. The victim was left shaken as MacLeod aggressively ordered her out of the vehicle. Shortly after, he arrived at the petrol station, where he threatened an employee with the imitation gun, demanding money.

The worker, fearing for his life, complied and handed over £130 in cash.

High-speed chase ensues

After the robbery, MacLeod attempted to evade the police, leading them on a dangerous chase that reached speeds of up to 120 mph. The pursuit began when officers were alerted to the carjacking and robbery. MacLeod initially drove at reckless speeds, even mounting curbs to avoid police vehicles. At one point, he slowed down to allow a female passenger to exit the car, but soon resumed his reckless driving, switching off the vehicle’s lights to evade capture.

Legal consequences and community impact

MacLeod was eventually apprehended after losing control of the vehicle at a roundabout. A breath test revealed he was over the legal alcohol limit, and an imitation handgun was discovered in the car. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including assault, robbery, and dangerous driving. During sentencing, Judge Douglas Brown highlighted the emotional toll on the victims, noting that the woman involved in the carjacking continues to feel the psychological effects of the incident.

MacLeod’s actions have raised concerns about youth crime and the impact of reckless behavior on communities. His defense attorney described the crimes as “a series of aberrations unlikely to be repeated,” but the lasting effects on the victims suggest a need for greater awareness and prevention measures regarding youth violence and crime.


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