Driver led police on car chase
A DRINK driver took a friend's van and led police on a five-mile chase before crashing into a parked car and running off.
Mark Stanger was spotted by police speeding through Easington in the early hours of the morning in a van with two other people inside, a court heard.
David Crook, prosecuting at Durham Crown Court, said: "One of the occupants threw cans of beer from it, which exploded as they hit the road in front of the pursuing police car.
"Stanger drove at about 60mph in a 30mph speed limit area as he made his way towards Shotton Colliery.
"As he came to a halt in Hawthorn Terrace, he hit a parked car, before fleeing.
"The pursuit lasted for about five miles and had a duration of about five minutes."
Stanger, 22, of A J Cook Terrace, Shotton Colliery, admitted dangerous driving, driving with excess alcohol, and criminal damage.
Lorraine Mustard, mitigating, said: "Mr Stanger is still a young man and he has just become a father.
"He tells me he is enjoying the responsibility, and it is to be hoped it will be the making of him."
The Recorder, Mr Keith Miller sentenced Stanger to a 12-month community order, including a four-month night-time curfew.
The recorder said: "It's not pleasant for someone to be called an idiot, but that is how you behaved.
"I'm not going to lock you up, because I think your baby son and girlfriend need you. Make sure the child does not grow up with a record like yours."
Stanger was banned from driving for three years, and he must take an extended test if he wishes to drive again.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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