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Teen joyrider evades police for 30 hours in dangerous spree

A 17-year-old's joyride through Inverness and Moray raises serious safety concerns.

Teen joyrider evading police during a high-speed chase
A thrilling moment as a teen joyrider escapes police for 30 hours.

In a shocking series of events, a 17-year-old joyrider from Aberdeen managed to evade police for a staggering 30 hours while driving recklessly through the streets of Inverness and Moray. The incidents, which occurred over March 10 and 11 last year, have raised serious concerns about public safety and the consequences of such dangerous behavior.

Initial Encounter with Police

The reckless driving spree began when police first noticed the teenager speeding through a pedestrian archway on Lombard Street in Inverness at AM. Despite being signaled to stop by three police constables on foot patrol, the youth accelerated towards them, forcing two officers to leap out of the way to avoid being struck.

Eyewitnesses reported that the driver even gestured obscenely at the officers as he sped off, showcasing a blatant disregard for the law and the safety of others.

Escalating Danger and Evasion

As the night progressed, the silver Subaru was captured on CCTV driving recklessly along Academy Street. Although police attempted to trace the vehicle, they were unable to pursue it at that time. Hours later, around 11 PM, the joyrider was located in the Merkinch area after colliding with another vehicle on Kessock Avenue. The occupants of the struck vehicle followed the Subaru, witnessing it drive the wrong way down Pumpgate Street. In a terrifying moment, one witness attempted to photograph the vehicle but had to be pulled to safety as the joyrider drove directly towards her.

Final Arrest and Legal Consequences

The reckless escapade continued as the Subaru struck another vehicle on an unclassified road in Keith at AM, further endangering lives. By AM, police received reports of the abandoned vehicle obstructing Grampian Road in Elgin. Upon arrival, officers found the teenager asleep in the driver’s seat and promptly arrested him. The court later heard that the youth admitted to three charges of dangerous driving and two counts of assault to the danger of life.

During the court proceedings, Sheriff Gary Aitken expressed grave concerns about the teenager’s actions, stating that detention was a likely outcome. He questioned the youth’s presence in Inverness, given that he resided over 100 miles away in Aberdeen. The sheriff emphasized the staggering lack of consideration displayed by the young driver, not only for his own safety but also for the lives of others on the road.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. As communities continue to grapple with issues of youth safety and responsible driving, it is crucial for authorities to implement measures that deter such dangerous behavior in the future.


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