Banned driver sent to prison for police smash

Michael Devers, 26, was serving a motoring ban when officers were told he was driving a van in the city centre in August.

Edinburgh Sheriff Court heard yesterday how two marked police cars pulled in front of him at set of traffic lights in a bid to take him into custody.

But Devers decided to speed away through a red light and bumped into the motors, which were sitting yards in front of him.

Police then gave chase, prompting Devers to stop and run from the vehicle – but he was caught shortly afterwards.

The story emerged during a hearing in which Devers, a prisoner of HMP Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

Depute fiscal Karon Rollo saidthat Devers was seen driving the van on August 8 in Logie Green Road, Leith Walk, Great Junction Street, North Junction Street and Admirality Street.

He had been seen speeding and driving while using a mobile phone.

Defence solicitor Vincent Belmonte said: “He offers no proper excuse for his behaviour.”