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Posted on the 12th February 2025 in PHTM News
100MPH DERBY TAXI THIEF JAILED AFTER KNIFE POINT ROBBERY AND DRAMATIC POLICE CHASE
A 26-year-old Derby man has been sentenced to six years in prison after a violent robbery, high-speed chase, and subsequent arrest.
Leonard David pleaded guilty to robbery, dangerous driving, and possession of a knife following an incident that began with a knifepoint taxi theft and culminated in a 100mph pursuit through Derby city centre.
The ordeal began in the early hours of 28 October, when David booked a taxi from Hartington Street. Upon entering the vehicle, he became aggressive and demanded money from the driver, repeatedly punching him in the face.
“Do as I say or I will kill you,” David threatened, according to reports. Despite the driver handing over £10, the assault continued.
Reaching Sitwell Street, David ordered the driver out of the car, stole the keys, and sped off in the Volkswagen Passat towards Osmaston Road.
Police located the stolen taxi on London Road and attempted a stop, but David refused to comply, leading officers on a dangerous chase through pedestrian areas, ignoring red lights, and reaching speeds of up to 100mph. The pursuit was eventually called off near Markeaton roundabout due to safety concerns.
The stolen taxi was later found abandoned in Thorntree Lane. Police then located David leaving a casino on Exchange Street. After a brief foot chase, he was apprehended, and the keys to the stolen Passat, along with class B drugs, were found in his possession.
Dramatic footage released by Derbyshire Police shows the stolen taxi speeding along Uttoxeter New Road, including a shocking moment where it drives the wrong way around a roundabout near a Lidl supermarket.
The footage also captures David’s arrest. A search of the taxi revealed a Stanley knife case and blade.
PC Natalie Morton, who led the investigation, described the incident’s impact on the victim: “This incident has understandably a long-lasting impact on the taxi driver both mentally and financially.”
She added, “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.”
David’s six-year sentence, handed down at Derby Crown Court on 16 January, also includes a six-year driving ban, after which he must pass an extended driving test.
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