Dangerous Driver Sentenced to 27 Months Jail After Dramatic Hospital Escape
A dangerous driver who attempted to flee from police by running from a hospital toilet has been sentenced to 27 months in jail. Bradley Hannon, 26, had successfully evaded officers for over a day before being captured at Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire. Hannon, who admitted to being under the influence of cocaine and having been awake for several days, pleaded guilty to charges including dangerous driving, driving while under the influence of drugs, and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
The incident unfolded on December 8, 2022, when Hannon was pursued by police in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire. During the chase, he drove recklessly on a pavement and grass verge, colliding with a police car and throwing objects out of his window. He then defiantly gestured at the officers before accelerating to speeds exceeding 60 miles per hour. Due to the significant risk to public safety, the pursuit was halted.
The following day, Hannon drove on the wrong side of the road and pavement in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire. Witnesses reported hearing a loud crash as Hannon’s Vauxhall car struck a street light and fence. With blood on him, Hannon abandoned the crashed vehicle and fled the scene. However, the police were able to trace him back to his home, where they found blood on the door handle and doorstep.
In a bid to escape justice, Hannon complained of stomach pains the next day and was taken to the hospital. However, while in the hospital toilet and with his handcuffs removed, he took advantage of the situation and burst out, attempting to flee down the corridor. Police swiftly tackled him to the ground and he was soon taken back out of the hospital. As they apprehended him, Hannon remarked, It was worth a try.
Aside from the custodial sentence, Sheriff Gerard Bonnar also handed Hannon a seven-year driving ban, adding to a previous disqualification in 2020. The court heard that Hannon showed complete disregard for public safety throughout his reckless actions, endangering the lives of innocent people in his attempts to evade arrest.
The sentencing serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can result from dangerous driving and attempting to elude the authorities. Such behavior not only puts the lives of others at risk but also prolongs the legal process and increases the severity of the penalties imposed.
As the case concluded, Sheriff Bonnar emphasized the need to protect the public from individuals like Hannon who demonstrate an utter lack of regard for the law and the safety of others. The sentence and driving ban hope to prevent further incidents involving Hannon and serve as a deterrent for other potential offenders.
Full compliance with traffic regulations and the responsible use of vehicles are paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of both drivers and pedestrians. Law enforcement agencies will continue to prioritize public safety by apprehending individuals who engage in dangerous driving and holding them accountable for their actions.
