James Griffiths, 21, has been convicted of dangerous driving after leading police on a chase through Wolverhampton in a cloned car. The incident, captured on police footage, shows Griffiths initially pulling over on Langley Road before ramming two police vehicles and fleeing.
Chase details and dangerous driving
Griffiths was recognized by traffic officers as a wanted suspect and initially stopped in a bay on Langley Road. However, he quickly accelerated, ramming two police cars and maneuvering around them to escape. In the footage released by West Midlands Police, an officer is heard saying 'he's off' as the pursuit begins.
During the chase, Griffiths drove at 50mph in a 30mph zone on Fairview Road, made sharp turns through residential streets, and mounted the pavement in Warstones Drive. One officer later stated: 'We've had to disengage. It's gone over grassland into the estate.'
Arrest and court proceedings
Officers later found Griffiths hiding nearby. As he was detained and handcuffed, he said: 'Tell everyone I love them.' The incident occurred on July 9, 2026. West Midlands Police reported that 'considerable damage' was caused to one police vehicle when Griffiths rammed it. His car was later found abandoned in Rindleford Avenue.
Griffiths admitted two counts of dangerous driving, two counts of driving without a licence or insurance, and possession of a bladed article in a public place at Wolverhampton Crown Court on July 13. He was remanded in custody and will be sentenced next month.
Police statement
PC Joe Beddoe, from West Midlands Police's road crime team, said: 'Griffiths has repeatedly put the lives of other road users and members of the community at risk by driving at dangerous speeds through residential areas. We are committed to keeping all road users safe and taking dangerous drivers off our roads.'
