Pair Jailed After High-Speed Chase Linked to Weeley Caravan Burglary

DOWNLOAD IPFS

Two men have been sentenced following a chaotic police pursuit that began after a burglary at a caravan site in Weeley, Essex.

Scott Warner, aged 37, and William Cross, aged 36, were both handed jail terms at Chelmsford Crown Court after admitting to several offences connected to the incident. The pair, both of no fixed address, were stopped by Essex Police on the A12 on 10 April 2025 following a dramatic pursuit involving multiple police vehicles. The chase resulted in damage to three police cars after Warner attempted to force his way through one of the vehicles during the escape attempt.

Warner received a 12-month prison sentence for offences including burglary, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, and five counts of fraud. Cross was sentenced to 22 months in custody and was also disqualified from driving for 47 months after admitting to three counts of fraud.

The offences were tied to a burglary carried out on 4 April 2025 at the Weeley Bridge Caravan Park. Warner had broken into a caravan, and shortly after, both men were seen on (closed-circuit television) CCTV using bank cards stolen during the break-in. The cards were used in attempted transactions at various businesses around Clacton, with more than a dozen attempts recorded.

The Metropolitan Police assisted Essex officers in bringing the pursuit to an end. The stolen vehicle, a Ford Focus, was traced and intercepted after the burglary, leading to the confrontation on the A12. The vehicle had been seen travelling dangerously, prompting a tactical stop by officers to prevent further risks to the public.

During the sentencing hearing on 27 July, the court heard how the suspects had shown a complete disregard for the law and public safety in both their criminal activity and their attempt to evade justice. The damage sustained by the police cars during the stop highlighted the reckless behaviour involved.

Detective Laura Watson, who led the investigation, commented on the case, stating: “Both these men were trying to evade the law by whatever means when we stopped them in April. It is only right they stand before the court and that justice is served.”

The case underlines the increasing pressure placed on police forces as they deal with offenders who not only commit crimes but endanger lives while trying to avoid capture. Despite the risks faced during the incident, officers managed to bring the pursuit to a controlled end without any injuries reported.

The convictions serve as a warning that crimes such as burglary and fraud, especially when combined with dangerous driving, will be pursued vigorously by law enforcement. The sentencing also reflects the courts’ firm stance on offenders who engage in repeated criminal behaviour and show a willingness to escalate their actions when confronted.

Both Warner and Cross remain in custody following their sentencing, with Cross also facing a lengthy driving ban. The authorities have not confirmed whether further investigations or charges are being considered in relation to other incidents.