A FLINTSHIRE teenager who led police on a high-speed chase through residential areas has been sentenced. 

Shane Leech, of Bro Brwynog, Treuddyn, appeared before Mold Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday (November 30). 

The 18-year-old had previously admitted dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen for analysis and possession of a Class A drug (cocaine). 

Karl Scholz, prosecuting, said that shortly after midnight on October 20, 2023, Leech was seen by a police officer driving a Ford Fiesta at speed through Northop. 

The officer indicated that Leech should stop his vehicle, the defendant drove off at speed onto the A55 eastbound - reaching speeds of 100mph. 

The court heard Leech continued towards Dobshill, and at this point was flicking his headlights on and off. He exited the A55 at Dobshill and took the exit into the village of Drury - reaching speeds of between 50 and 60mph. 

Leech went through a temporary set of traffic lights while they were on red and continued towards Buckley town centre. He again skipped a red light and turned into a housing estate before exiting and then re-entering the estate - mounting the kerb while doing so. 

Leech was at this point driving on the wrong side of the road and almost collided head on with another police car. He mounted the curb on Bistre Avenue in Buckley, striking a transit van in the process.

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The defendant was brought out of the car, appearing to be asleep. After he was awakened, a small bag of cocaine was recovered. At Llay Police Station, Leech refused to provide a sample for analysis. It also became apparent that Leech had no insurance or a driving licence. 

Leech, who has five previous convictions for 20 offences, gave no comment in police interview. 

Amy Edwards, defending, said Leech has expressed remorse for his actions. At the time of the offences, he was living in a Travelodge off the A55 near Northop and bought a car so he could remain connected with friends in the Mold area as he felt isolated. On the night of the offences, the defendant panicked after seeing the police car as he didn't have a licence or insurance.

Miss Edwards said that the age and maturity of the defendant were also factors which played a part. The author of a pre-sentence report said that Leech acts "impusively" and lacks "thinking skills", and that 35 thinking skills sessions would benefit the defendant. 

She added that Leech has abused drugs since the age of 12, but that his use of Class A drugs has recently ended.  

Judge Rhys Rowlands sentenced Leech to 12-month term in a young offender's institution - which was suspended for 18 months. 

Leech was also disqualified from driving for a period of two years and must carry out 200 hours of unpaid work. He will also complete 35 sessions of rehabilitation activity.