A 'dangerous' driver has admitted to doing more than double the speed limit through Swindon's roads and then running from police on foot, causing damage to properties in the process.
Altan O'Connell, who is listed as having no fixed abode and is currently being held in custody, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court via video link, where he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, criminal damage and possession of Class A drugs.
The court heard how the 28-year-old man had been chased by Wiltshire Police officers for five to eight minutes on October 19, 2025, getting up to speeds as high as 70mph in Swindon's 30 zones.
He also carried out dangerous undertaking manoeuvres using bus lanes as a way to try and escape police.
Prosecutor Ms Cole told the court: "It was around 9pm in the evening when police were patrolling along Queens Drive and they began to follow Mr O'Connell who was driving at 60mph in a 30mph area.
"They believe he was aware that he was being followed, and when he reached Transfer Bridges, the car sped all the way around the roundabout, going back towards Cricklade Road.
"They pursued the driver for over five minutes and at points, he was driving more than twice the speed limit, particularly on Whitworth Road.
"He had passengers in the vehicle who he put at risk.
"He then left the vehicle at a residential property and fled on foot. He was tasered but got free and forced himself through narrow garden gates, causing criminal damage."
After a second taser attempt, O'Connell was eventually caught and arrested by police.
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When searching him, officers found a bag of white powder in his pocket, and another one was found inside a Rizla cigarette rolling paper packet.
Despite having accepted his guilty pleas, magistrates in Swindon have chosen to send the dangerous driver's case to Exeter Crown Court.
This is because he is already due to appear in Exeter on July 13 for a separate, unrelated matter.
Altan O’Connell faces separate charges of kidnap, conspiracy to commit burglary, dwelling with intent to steal, participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group, handling stolen goods and false imprisonment.
He was one of six men charged after police raids in Swindon.
"It makes the most sense to us to deal with it all together as he is currently remanded in custody for that other matter," explained chair of the magistrates bench, Ms Durrant.
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