Knifepoint robber drove stolen taxi at 100mph

A man who led police on a 100mph (160 km/h) pursuit through Derby city centre after stealing a taxi at knifepoint has been jailed.

Derbyshire Police said Leonard David ordered a taxi from Hartington Street on 28 October and demanded the driver give him money, before repeatedly punching him in the face and then stealing the Volkswagen Passat when it reached Sitwell Street.

David, of Sinfin Lane, Derby, was arrested and charged with robbery, dangerous driving and possession of a knife.

At Derby Crown Court the 26-year-old admitted the offences and was jailed for six years, banned from driving for six years and must pass an extended driving test once the ban ends.

During the attack, the driver handed over £10 but David continued punching him before telling him he had a knife and to "do as I say or I will kill you".

When the taxi reached Sitwell Street, David ordered the driver to stop the Volkswagen Passat and give him the key, the force said.

He then sped off in the direction of Osmaston Road.

Police were informed of the robbery and shortly after spotted the stolen taxi, attempting to stop it in London Road.

David failed to stop and sped off, driving through pedestrianised areas, going through red lights and reaching speeds between 90 and 100mph.

The pursuit had to be called off for safety reasons once the taxi reached Markeaton roundabout, but the car was found parked in Thorntree Lane shortly afterwards.

Officers then saw a man matching the description of the offender leaving a casino in Exchange Street, where he ran off but was chased and arrested.

Following sentencing on 16 January, PC Natalie Morton said: "The level of violence and aggression David displayed was shocking and the fact he twice tried to evade capture is a clear sign that he did not want to face the consequences of his actions.

"I am pleased that he has now been brought to justice and is behind bars for these offences."

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