Gangster given extra jail time for high speed chase through Glasgow

A gangster has been handed extra jail time after a high speed chase with police in his Mini.

Mark Richardson had been been tailed through streets in the north of Glasgow in December 2016.

The 31 year-old whizzed through traffic, weaving in and out of other vehicles as a police helicopter kept watch overhead.

Edinburgh-based Richardson is believed to have initially thought it was rival criminals who were following him.

But, after dumping the Mini in Glasgow's Springburn and getting into another car, he was soon snared by officers from the Organised Crime and Terrorism Unit.

The incident emerged as Richardson appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

He had been part of a nine-strong major crime mob who were jailed for a total of 87 years in January.

Richardson sentenced to 18 months after he pled guilty to culpable and reckless conduct.

The jail-term will run consecutively to the eight years and nine months he was given at the high court for having a Glock handgun.

The convicted cocaine dealer had been wanted by police in 2016.

Detectives learned he had moved from the capital and had been staying in Glasgow.

As part of a “targeted activity” probe, Richardson was spotted in a Mini on December 19.

It is believed Richardson had previously been warned his life may be in danger.

When he realised he was being followed, it is thought Richardson reckoned he was being tailed by other underworld figures.

Police footage caught him going at more than 65mph in a 30mph zone while also driving on the opposite side of the road.

He eventually abandoned the Mini at a local Esso petrol station then tried to escape in another motor before officers swooped.

Detective Graeme Naysmith, of the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit, said after the hearing: “Significant resources were utilised to apprehend Mark Richardson, who was doing all he could to avoid detection.