High-Speed Quad Thief Caught After Fiery Police Chase
Steven Johnstone made a daring escape attempt after stealing a high-value quad from a farm garage in Teesdale just after midnight on October 11 last year. But his joyride ended in flames—and jail.
Police Alerted by Ruralwatch, Chase Ensues
Johnstone’s theft didn’t go unnoticed. Ruralwatch members spotted him fleeing on the Yamaha Kodiak 700 and tipped off Durham Roads & Armed Policing officers. The quad and a red Astra were found abandoned on the A67 between Gainford and Piercebridge.
When officers moved in, Johnstone roared off at up to 70mph, riding on the wrong side of the road and even the wrong way round a roundabout. Sparks flew from under the quad as he pushed his luck all the way to Darlington—where the vehicle suddenly burst into flames.
Down by the River Skerne: Thief Nabbed
The 41-year-old from Bradford ditched the burning quad near the River Skerne but was quickly detained by police. He was charged with motor vehicle theft, possession of a class B drug, and handling stolen goods.
Co-Conspirators Face Justice
Johnstone’s partners-in-crime, Metin Ucarcan and Jack Smith, were caught inside the red Astra. Ucarcan landed 37 months behind bars for the farm break-in and another Darlington burglary. Smith got a 21-month suspended sentence plus 200 hours of unpaid work.
Johnstone himself received 30 months in prison and a driving ban of 27 months at Durham Crown Court on November 20.
