McLaren driver shows off to BMW only to discover it was unmarked police car

Magistrates issues 21-day ban, £660 fine plus £620 costs and £66 statutory victim surcharge

McLaren driver shows off to BMW only to discover it was unmarked police car

A supercar driver who thought a pursuing police officer was “out for a bit of sport” has been banned from the road for 21 days.

Jason Dixon drove his McLaren 720S at 100mph along the A14 near Bury St Edmunds on January 12.

He admitted speeding along the 70mph stretch of road when he appeared at Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

The court heard how a traffic officer in an unmarked BMW spotted Dixon driving significantly faster than other traffic and gave pursuit.

The officer caught up with the McLaren as it slowed near junction 45 for Rougham but before he could pull in front, Dixon accelerated away at speed and left the main road at the next junction.

When eventually pulled over, Dixon said he thought the officer was “out for a bit off sport”.

He was originally charged with travelling at 120mph for 0.2 miles, which he denied, and which could not be proven due to a lack of a speedometer calibration certificate presented by the police.

Russell Butcher, representing Dixon, said his client had never accepted the original charge but admitted travelling at 100mph.

He said Dixon was director of an international company with four UK based staff, including two located outside Suffolk.

“He needs to be able to get to see these employees. That would be very difficult if he didn’t drive,” said Mr Butcher, who explained Dixon also needed his vehicle to look after his grandchildren and support his elderly mother.

Magistrates banned Dixon from driving for 21 days and imposed a £660 fine.

He was also ordered to pay £620 in costs and a £66 statutory victim surcharge.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore said: “Whilst I don’t know the specific details of this case, I would need to be convinced that sentencing in such cases teaches the culprit a suitable lesson and acts as an effective deterrent to other drivers.

“Why some motorists think they are beyond reproach completely beats me – in my opinion it’s irresponsible and dangerous, and clearly breaks the law.”

Have your say!

0 2

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.