A DISQUALIFIED driver who hurtled through West Devon at speeds up to 120mph has been jailed for four years. Mark Dixon, aged 25 of Hemel Hempstead, ran through red lights and crossed double white lines as he sped along the A386 between Okehampton and Tavistock in his efforts to evade police, Plymouth Crown Court was told. Judge Boothman was told police clocked Mr Dixon driving a stolen car on the A386 near Okehampton on the afternoon of June 7 and gave chase. The court heard Mr Dixon sped through residential areas at more than 80mph and evaded police by turning off into a side road. With the help of villagers, police caught up with Mr Dixon, who collided with the patrol car and fled through Mary Tavy, revving to 120mph in his attempt to evade officers. He was eventually captured after he stalled the car and police were able to grab the keys and arrest him. He admitted stealing the car and changing its number plates. Officers said Mr Dixon?s driving had been nothing short of outrageous and blatantly dangerous. Prosecuting, David Gittins said it was the 25th time Mr Dixon had been stopped while driving when disqualified. Jason Beale, defending, said Mr Dixon?s father had recently died and left him property in Ireland, to which he was going to move with his pregnant girlfriend. He was hoping to make a new start, away from the influence of friends. Mr Dixon was jailed for a total of four years for theft of the car, theft of the number plate, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified. He was disqualified from driving for a further five years and ordered to take an extended driving test.
