Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Wednesday 12th March 2025, at 21:40hrs
A 32-year-old man has been sentenced to 32 weeks in prison and disqualified from driving for over three years after a dangerous pursuit through the streets of Rossendale.
Thomas Howard, of Chapel Street, Brierfield, was arrested in September 2024 following a dramatic chase with officers from the Rural Task Force.
Police had signalled for Howard to stop his van, but he refused, leading officers on a dangerous pursuit through the area.
The chase came to an abrupt end when Howard was forced to stop due to a narrow bridge. Following a short foot chase, he was apprehended and arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, disqualified driving, drug driving, and driving without insurance.
The incident, which occurred in September 2024, culminated in Howard’s appearance at Blackburn Magistrates Court on February 27th, 2025. There, he was sentenced to 32 weeks in prison and disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for three years and 112 days.
Rossendale Neighbourhood Inspector Matt Plummer condemned Howard’s actions, stating,
“Howard drove dangerously, including overtaking and driving on the wrong side of the road. His actions posed a significant risk to other road users and pedestrians.”
Inspector Plummer expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, adding,
“I am pleased he has been given a custodial sentence and been made accountable for his dangerous actions. This outcome should be an important reminder of the serious consequences of dangerous driving, and the impact it can have on our communities.”
The Rural Task Force’s successful apprehension and the subsequent sentencing highlight the police’s commitment to tackling dangerous driving and ensuring the safety of Rossendale’s residents.
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