Dangerous Driver Jailed After Bodmin Police Pursuit

A man who flipped his car while trying to escape police in Bodmin has been jailed for 16 months.

Jean-Luc Coombe, 29, who has no driving licence, failed to stop for traffic officers on 6th November and crashed in country lanes during the pursuit.

He appeared at Truro Crown Court today, 11th December, where he was sentenced for dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance and failing to stop for police. He was also disqualified from driving for two years and ordered to pay a £187 surcharge.

The Pursuit Through Bodmin

Traffic Sergeant Phil Brown explained what happened when he came across the Mini being driven by Coombe.

Sgt Brown said:
“I was patrolling Bodmin in an unmarked car when I came across a Mini which was showing as being driven without insurance. The driver seemed to react to my presence in ‘twitchy’ manner. I put the blues on to indicate the car to pull over but it made off.

“I called up on the radio to declare a fail to stop pursuit and started a commentary which is an ongoing assessment of the risk, actions and tactics. I also called up to the control room to get additional trained units on their way to support me.

“Over the next eight or so minutes, Coombe was driving recklessly, overtaking on blind bends head on into oncoming vehicles, failing to observe his surroundings and as he pulled off into the back lanes, lost control temporarily when all four wheels left the ground.

“The pursuit continued through the country lanes towards Wadebridge and as I rounded the corner the car had clipped the bank and was on its roof in front of me.

“I approached the car to instruct the occupants to stay where they were and to check they were ok until additional units arrived at scene and were able to assist with the arrest of Coombe and providing first aid to the passenger.”

Both Coombe and the passenger were taken to hospital, then discharged with minor injuries.

Court Outcome and Police Response

Coombe was arrested, taken into custody and charged. He pleaded guilty at Bodmin Magistrates’ Court on 8th November.

Sgt Brown added:
“The manner Coombe drove in was completely unacceptable, not only did he pose a risk to himself, but to his passenger and to members of the public.

“Thankfully there were no serious injuries in this case, but this footage demonstrates just how easily and quickly something can happen.

“I’m pleased with the sentence passed today and that a dangerous driver has been taken off our roads.”

Police Safety Message

Roads and armed policing teams operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, targeting unsafe driving to help keep roads safe.

Anyone with concerns about someone’s driving is asked to report it. In an emergency, call 999. For non emergencies, call 101 or use the police website.