Jacob Roberts (Image: South Wales Police)
Last Updated: 1 minute ago
A disqualified driver who reversed into a police car twice while trying to get away from officers has been sent to prison for 14 months.
Jacob Roberts, 25, of Mountain Ash, was also banned from the roads for a further three years when he appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on September 16.
How it started
The chase took place in May 2026 on roads around Abercwmboi. Officers on routine patrol in the area noticed the distinct smell of cannabis coming from a van and tried to pull it over. Instead of stopping, Roberts sped away.
The pursuit
South Wales Police said Roberts drove erratically and well over the speed limit. He went through several junctions without stopping, mounted pavements and put pedestrians in danger. Along the way he hit parked cars and a building, and twice reversed into the police car following him.
The arrest
It ended when Roberts turned into a dead-end street. He abandoned the vehicle and ran, but officers chased him down on foot and arrested him. When he was searched, they found two cannabis cigarettes.
In court
Roberts admitted six offences: dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, failing to stop after a road accident, criminal damage to property worth under £5,000, and possession of class B drugs (cannabis/cannabis resin).
He was jailed for one year and two months and disqualified from driving for three years.
What police said
PC Peter Kerswell said: “Roberts was already banned from driving when he committed these offences, he showed complete disregard for all other road users, including pedestrians.
“I hope it acts as a deterrent for others who think of driving dangerously.
“It’s lucky that no one was seriously injured during this pursuit, we hope this sentence will give Roberts time to reflect on his actions.”
