Sunderland danger driver hit 70mph in 20mph zones before causing crash going wrong way on A1231 roundabout while fleeing police

A danger driver ploughed head on into an oncoming car after going the wrong way around a roundabout on a Sunderland dual carriageway.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Craig Stoker, 24, hit 70mph in 20mph zones in his Audi A4 before zooming onto the A1231 Wessington Way on Thursday, October 14.

Stoker, of Brockley Street, Town End Farm, drove on the wrong side of the road to avoid pursuing police but crashed.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

No-one was injured in the collision – and Stoker drove off, only to go off the road soon afterwards, leading to his arrest.

The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.
The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.

His antics were described as “highly dangerous” by prosecutor Leanne Duffy at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court.

Ms Duffy told the hearing: “It’s dangerous driving, a highly dangerous police pursuit.

“It’s 70mph in 20mph areas and a collision head on with another vehicle while going the wrong way around a roundabout.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

After being detained, Stoker was found with cocaine and a prohibited extendable offensive baton.

He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, drugs possession and five other offences and will be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court next month.

District Judge Zoe Passfield said his crimes were so serious they could only be dealt with by the higher court.

She told Stoker: “You will get credit for the guilty pleas, but your case is far too serious for this court.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Stoker also admitted driving without insurance, driving without a licence, failing to stop after an accident, failing to report an accident and possession of an offensive weapon.

Judge Passfield imposed an interim driving ban on Stoker, who attended court with his mum, and granted him unconditional bail.

He will be sentenced at crown court on Friday, March 18.