James Joseph Donegan, 30, of Liscannor Park in Derry, was sentenced at Derry court for dangerous driving and related offences on October 21, 2024.

CCTV operators spotted Donegan's vehicle and alerted police. Officers signalled the vehicle to stop, but Donegan accelerated away toward Buncrana Road and the Templegrove roundabout.

Police took evasive action as Donegan rammed their vehicle. Officers arrested him after the collision.

Defence counsel Sinead Rogan told the court that Donegan accepts the verdict and apologises to police. She noted he had recently left prison and followed a party lifestyle at the time.

Rogan added that Donegan has stopped drinking and using drugs and seeks to correct his behaviour.

Deputy District Judge Liam McStay stated Donegan lost credit for contesting the case. He ruled the offences too serious for community disposal and noted the risk of Crown Court proceedings.

McStay recognised Donegan's efforts to address his issues. The judge imposed a five-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months, a two-year driving disqualification, and fines totalling £700.