Peterborough drink driver who was wanted by police for five years sobs as he is jailed

Daniel Marchant (30) of Weedon Close, Peterborough, breached the suspended sentence order - given to him for an assault - in 2016.

However, he had not been caught until Friday (May 7) when he was spotted drink driving by police.

On Monday he was jailed for 30 weeks at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court.

Alex Hinds, prosecuting, told the court police spotted Marchant driving on the Frank Perkins Parkway.

He said; “Police noticed the defendant driving at speed.

“They indicated to stop the vehicle, but the driver carried on.”

Mr Hinds said the police officers were not pursuit trained, so did not follow - but traced the address the car was registered to - the home address of Marchant.

When they arrived, they found the BMW, with the front number plate missing.

Officers spoke to Marchant, asking him to provide a sample of breath, which he refused.

Mr Hinds said Marchant was aggressive and also shouted out a number of homophobic insults at police officers.

The court was told that while Marchant has 22 previous offences recorded against him, he has remained out of trouble since his last offence in 2014.

Kashif Khan, defending, said Marchant regretted his actions.

He said: “He has a full time, permanent job as a brick layer, and a supportive partner. He has recently had a daughter, and he is the only person in the family who is working.

“The impact of custody would be significant on his family.”

But Deputy District Judge Olwen Davies, said an immediate prison term was the only option.

She said; “You made a conscious decision to drink and drive on May 7. Your recollection of the event is almost nonexistent, which shows just how high the alcohol level was.

“The language you used was utterly vile.”

Marchant was given a 14 week prison sentence for the breach of the suspended sentence, and a 16 week sentence for failing to provide a specimen of breath, to be served consecutively, making a total sentence of 30 weeks.

He was also banned from driving for 36 months - which can be reduced by 36 weeks if the drink drive rehabilitation course is completed by October 14 2023. The ban will not start until he is released from prison. He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £128.

Marchant pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen of breath and failing to stop for an officer. He also admitted the breach of the suspended sentence.