Driver who broke girl’s collarbone by knocking her off horse while fleeing police is jailed

Connor Philip Mitchell, of Elliot Road, Peterlee, made off from police in July last year when they attempted to pull him over in the South Hetton area.

A pursuit unfolded and Mitchell refused to stop his car even after colliding with a 12-year-old girl on horseback, who suffered a broken collar bone when she fell from the horse.

When the 22-year-old finally stopped, he attempted to flee on foot but was caught by officers, who found he was in possession of several plastic bags containing cocaine.

Mitchell was later charged with possession of a Class A drug with intent to supply and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Appearing at Durham Crown Court, Mitchell was found guilty of both offences and sentenced to a total of four years and three months in prison.

He was also disqualified from driving for five years and one month and will have to pass an extended driving test before being allowed to drive again.

Detective Inspector Sharon Alderson, of Durham Police, said afterwards: “Mitchell’s selfish actions resulted in an innocent member of the public being injured and it goes without saying that the consequences could have been even more serious.

“His sentencing sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who put our community at risk through reckless driving, or who look to use the roads for criminal purposes.”

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