Drink driver brandished air rifle and led police in chase near Peterborough primary school
A drink driver who brandished an air rifle and led officers on a pursuit near a Peterborough primary school has been jailed.
Police say the drama began when they were alerted to James Lonergan (59) being rowdy in Copeland, Bretton, during which he had fired the weapon and was wielding it in the air.
A police spokesperson said that Lonergan had got into a Land Rover and that armed officers arrived shortly afterwards.
He said: “ Lonergan rammed the police car in a bid to get away and a pursuit ensued, with Lonergan exceeding speed limits.
"The pursuit ended after he drove by Nova Primary Academy, in Middleton, Bretton, just as children were leaving for the day.
“He was arrested and failed a breathalyser test – returning a reading of more than double the legal limit.”
The incident took place on October 22 at 3pm.
Lonergan, of Copeland, Bretton, Peterborough, admitted possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a knife in a public place, dangerous driving and drink driving.
He was jailed for four years and four months at Cambridge Crown Court on June 23.
Afterwards, DC Rebecca Corder said: “Lonergan’s behaviour was disgraceful.
"To brandish a firearm in the street and then lead officers on a pursuit near a school – all while over the limit - is reckless beyond belief.
“I’m pleased he was apprehended before anyone was hurt and has now been jailed.”