Jail for driver who led police on high-speed Sussex pursuit
He was found to be more than ten times the legal limit for cocaine
Last updated 18th Apr 2024
A drug-driver who led police on a high-speed pursuit through West Sussex has been jailed for ten months.
Landscape gardener Paul Rudkin reached speeds of 80mph in a 30 zone in Burgess Hill after failing to stop for police in Keymer Road on December 10th last year.
The 42-year-old of Bentswood Road in Haywards Heath dangerously overtook other vehicles while being pursued by officers out as part of the force's Christmas crackdown on drink and drug-driving.
The chase ended when he lost control of his Mini Cooper after hitting a puddle.
Rudkin was found to be at more than ten times the legal limit for cocaine, with 110 micrograms per litre of blood.
He had already been wanted on a warrant for failing to attend court for a previous drug-driving offence.
Rudkin was sentenced to ten months in prison at a hearing at Lewes Crown Court on January 8th.
Following the first sentencing in January, Rudkin admitted failing to stop, driving without insurance, and dangerous driving, and has been disqualified from driving for three years and four months.
Then on April 10th, at Crawley Magistrates' Court, he admitted charges two charges relating to drug driving. He was given a further three year disqualification and ordered to pay a £32 surcharge and £80 fine.
Investigating officer PC Max Setra from the Roads Policing Unit said:
"Rudkin’s driving put himself, his passengers and other road users at risk.
"He was highly fortunate not to caused a head-on collision as he reached high speeds in Burgess Hill.
"We are pleased with the outcome of the case. It demonstrates our determination to catch offenders and take dangerous drivers off our roads."