Drug-driver jailed after 120mph police chase

A disqualified driver has been jailed after reaching speeds of more than 120mph (193kmph) in a police chase while he was high on cocaine.

Michael Stack, 23, of Severn Road in Weston-super-Mare, north Somerset, undertook motorists on the M5's hard shoulder and narrowly missed crashing into other vehicles as he jumped red lights on A-roads during the pursuit on 13 April.

The level of cocaine in his system was found to be more than three times the legal limit.

Stack appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court on 2 May and pleaded guilty to a string of offences. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison and disqualified from driving for four years and six months.

Stack endangered innocent roads users and took risks that could have cost lives, police have said

While patrolling on 13 April, officers spotted a BMW motorist who was driving while disqualified.

After police attempted to pull Stack over on the M5 near Junction 14 (Thornbury), he drove off at speed. He was pursued down country lanes, residential routes and the M5, M4 and Bristol's M32.

He was evenutally arrested after fleeing his vehicle, the court heard.

Stack had previously been disqualified from driving for 12 months on 25 March.

Stack pleaded guilty to driving a motor vehicle dangerously, driving without a license or insurance, and driving a vehicle under the influence of drugs.

Speaking after the sentencing, PC Laurie Merchant said: "Stack endangered innocent roads users and took risks that could have cost lives – all because he decided to drive despite not legally being able to."

In addition to his prison sentence and driving ban, Stack must take an extended driving test at the end of the ban and pay £272 in court costs.