Drug Dealer’s High-Speed Getaway Ends in Jail
Joshua Baker, 23, fled police in an uninsured Volkswagen Golf on Lanchester Road near Burnhope in June 2021. His wild ride didn’t stop there.
Reckless Chase Through Busy Streets
Baker sped through Annfield Plain, Catchgate, and Harelaw, often driving on the wrong side and into oncoming traffic. He narrowly missed several vehicles, putting innocent motorists at serious risk.
His dangerous spree ended in Dipton when he swerved into a residential street and chucked a suspicious package from the car.
£3,000 Worth of Cocaine Found
The dropped package contained over £3,000 worth of cocaine, later forensically linked to Baker. Police arrested him at his Burnopfield home shortly after he abandoned the vehicle. He faced charges of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence of a controlled drug.
Judge Hands Down Tough Sentences
Baker had already been jailed for 14 months in 2021 for driving offences. Returning to Durham Crown Court last Friday, he was locked up for an additional 33 months after pleading guilty to supplying cocaine.
“Baker’s efforts to evade police that day put other law-abiding motorists in considerable danger – his manner of driving was reckless and he showed absolutely no regard for the safety of others,” said Detective Constable Graeme Whitfield.
“Our investigation found that he was also involved in the supply of cocaine in the Derwentside area, delivering to customers on demand. The sentences serve as a reminder for young people not to fall into the trap of trying to make quick, illegal money.”
