Dangerous driver panics and flees police in stolen Honda Civic
A young motorist from Smethwick has received a suspended prison sentence after leading police on a dangerous chase through residential streets while driving with two deflated tyres. Mohibullah Faraz, 20, admitted to dangerous driving, handling stolen goods, and driving without insurance following the incident that occurred in May 2024.
The failed escape attempt
The court heard how police identified a black Honda Civic on cloned number plates in Cape Hill, Smethwick, on May 18, 2024 - just five days after the vehicle had been reported stolen. When officers attempted to stop the car, Faraz panicked and accelerated away, beginning a pursuit that would see him reach speeds of 60mph in 30mph zones.
Prosecutor Ammo Khanna detailed how Faraz undertook other vehicles at high speed and navigated through multiple residential areas including Barrett Street, Herbert James Close, Davey Road, and Bonafice Road. Despite police successfully deploying a stinger device that deflated the Honda's front two tyres, Faraz continued his attempt to escape.
Apprehension and sentencing
The chase concluded when Faraz collided with a parked police car in Rosedale Avenue before fleeing on foot. A police dog unit subsequently caught up with the defendant, biting his arm and pulling him to the ground. Faraz required hospital treatment before being de-arrested and asked to attend a voluntary interview.
During police interviews, Faraz claimed he had "simply borrowed" the car from a friend and had "no knowledge" it was stolen. His defence barrister stated Faraz "essentially panicked" when he saw police, knowing he wasn't insured to drive the vehicle and fearing he would lose his recently obtained licence.
At Wolverhampton Crown Court, Recorder Brown handed Faraz an 18-month sentence, suspended for two years. The defendant, of Crown Street, Smethwick, was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £400 in costs. Additionally, he received a two-year driving ban.
Despite having no previous convictions, the court heard how Faraz now "takes full responsibility for his actions" and is "very sorry" for the dangerous incident that put both himself and the public at risk.
