'Reckless' driver jailed after ploughing into West Midlands Police traffic officer
The vehicle was being pursued by officers on the 18 November 2022 after it was identified as stolen
A driver described as being 'reckless' after ploughing into a West Midlands Police traffic officer has been jailed.
The incident happened as the officer - PC Anderson - was trying to stop a stolen car.
James Clarke struck the traffic officer as he tried to use a stinger on the Ford Fiesta near the junction of Long Nuke Road and Shenley Lane in Weoley Castle during a pursuit by officers back on November 18, 2022.
It happened after the car was identified as having been stolen.
After hitting PC Anderson the car drove off, but was safely brought to a halt in Bell Lane, Northfield a short time later.
PC Anderson received significant injuries which have prevented him in returning to duty so far.
DS Hinton said: "Clarke was reckless behind the wheel as he tried to flee from a pursuing police vehicle.
"He then struck an officer who was attempting to deploy a stinger to bring the vehicle to a stop. He showed complete disregard by then continuing to drive, before the Fiesta finally came to a halt.
"Our traffic officer has been left with injuries which mean he cannot return to active duty at the moment, and play his role in keeping the roads safe and protecting the public. Clarke has quite rightly lost his freedom."
Clarke, aged 33 of Copston Road, Shenley Green, admitted causing injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop, having no insurance and driving otherwise in accordance with a licence.
He was jailed for two years and 10 months at Birmingham Crown Court on Wednesday (February 22).
He was also banned from the road for two years.