News

Man drove from court moments after disqualified

A Co Tyrone man who got into a car and sped off from court just moments after being disqualified from driving has been jailed for what his own barrister described as “stupidity personified”.

Police were leaving Dungannon Courthouse at 5.20pm on March 4 when they saw Stephen Patrick McKnight (31) run toward a Peugeot car – the only other vehicle in the car park - and open the driver’s door.

The officers knew he had just been disqualified from driving and as they drew near, McKnight closed the door and walked away onto the Killyman Road.

However, as police drove away he returned to the car park and while the officers turned their vehicle, he drove off in the Peugeot.

Police signalled for McKnight to stop using blue lights, sirens and flashing headlights, but he fled at speeds of up to 60mph in a 30mph zone.

Dungannon Magistrates Court heard that he swerved in and around cars and caused one to take evasive action after turning sharply.

As the area was busy with pedestrians and other vehicles police decided to abandon their pursuit, but arrested McKnight - of Main Street, Coagh - at his home the following day.

After caution he replied, “Sure – so lift me.”

He later admitted all offences in court.

District Judge John Meehan noted that McKnight has a long criminal record and is due to be sentenced on unrelated matters.

“Everything has been tried to stop the defendant re-offending," he said. "It was a pure act of defiance to drive from court after being disqualified.”

He ordered McKnight to serve three months in custody and disqualified him from driving for a further three years.