Driver caught snorting cocaine arrested after police chase

In Cambridge, England, at approximately 3 AM on August 10, 2023, Samuel Batters was recorded on CCTV using cocaine while driving a Kia Sportage. The footage showed Batters in the driver's seat with two passengers, engaging in conversation and consuming drugs just before they drove off. Unbeknownst to Batters, CCTV operators alerted the police about the drug use. When authorities located the Kia on Victoria Road, Batters initially appeared to comply but then fled, leading to a high-speed chase during which he collided with multiple parked cars and fences. After attempting to escape on foot, he was apprehended, and subsequent testing revealed he had both cocaine and cannabis in his system. Batters provided a breath sample reading of 74 microgrammes, significantly exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes per 100 millilitres. He later registered an evidential reading of 53 microgrammes while in custody. At Cambridge Crown Court on November 22, 2023, Batters admitted to dangerous driving, driving under the influence, and failing to stop after a road accident. Consequently, he received a suspended prison sentence of 12 months, was disqualified from driving for 22 months, and imposed with a curfew requiring him to remain at home between 8:30 PM and 7 AM daily. Police officials, including PC Shelley Cannon from the Road Policing Unit, condemned Batters's actions, emphasizing the severe dangers posed by drug use while operating a vehicle. Cannon noted that Batters displayed a complete disregard for the safety of others, highlighting the risky behaviors that can result from alcohol and drug consumption. The case against Batters underscores the increasing concern over impaired driving and the responsibility all drivers have toward public safety on the roads. This incident serves as a disturbing reminder of the potential consequences involving substance use and reckless behavior behind the wheel, culminating in criminal charges and legal repercussions that aimed to ensure such actions are met with suitable penalties.