WATCH: 100mph chase through Derby ends in prison sentence for taxi thief
A man who stole a taxi at knifepoint and led police on a dangerous high-speed chase through Derby has been jailed for six years.
Leonard David, 26, booked a taxi from Hartington Street in the early hours of 28 October 2024. Once inside, he became aggressive, demanding money from the driver before repeatedly punching him. Despite the driver handing over £10, David continued his assault and threatened to kill him if he did not comply.
Upon reaching Sitwell Street, he forced the driver to stop and hand over the keys. He then sped off in the Volkswagen Passat, heading towards Osmaston Road.
Police were alerted and quickly spotted the stolen taxi on London Road. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, David accelerated, driving at speeds of up to 100mph. He ran red lights, drove through pedestrianised areas, and posed a serious risk to the public.
Due to the danger of the pursuit, officers abandoned the chase at Markeaton roundabout. The stolen taxi was later found parked in Thorntree Lane.
Shortly afterwards, officers saw a man matching the suspect’s description leaving a casino in Exchange Street. David tried to flee but was caught and arrested. A search found the stolen taxi keys in his pocket, along with class B drugs. A Stanley knife case and blade were later discovered inside the vehicle.
David pleaded guilty to robbery, dangerous driving, and possession of a knife. He was sentenced at Derby Crown Court on 16 January, receiving six years in prison. He was also banned from driving for six years and must pass an extended test before regaining his licence.
PC Natalie Morton, who led the investigation, said: “This incident has understandably a long-lasting impact on the taxi driver both mentally and financially.
“He was subjected to horrendous violence and threats all while simply doing his job, and was then left unable to work for days after this incident while the car was repaired after David damaged it.
“The level of violence and aggression David displayed was shocking and the fact he twice tried to evade capture is a clear sign that he did not want to face the consequences of his actions.
“I am pleased that he has now been brought to justice and is behind bars for these offences.”
