Drink Driver Armed with Air Rifle Jailed After Police Chase in Peterborough

A drink driver who brandished an air rifle and led officers on a pursuit near a Peterborough primary school has been jailed. At about 3pm on 22 October police received a report James Lonergan, 59, was being rowdy in Copeland, Bretton, had fired the weapon and was wielding it in the air.

Lonergan got into a Land Rover and armed officers arrived shortly afterwards. He rammed the police car in a bid to get away and a pursuit ensued, with Lonergan exceeding speed limits.

The pursuit ended after he drove by Nova Primary Academy, in Middleton, Bretton, just as children were leaving for the day. He was arrested and failed a breathalyser test – returning a reading of more than double the legal limit.

Lonergan, of Copeland, Bretton, Peterborough, admitted possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of a knife in a public place, dangerous driving and drink driving. On Tuesday, 23 June, at Cambridge Crown Court he was jailed for four years and four months.

DC Rebecca Corder said: “Lonergan’s behaviour was disgraceful. To brandish a firearm in the street and then lead officers on a pursuit near a school – all while over the limit - is reckless beyond belief.

“I’m pleased he was apprehended before anyone was hurt and has now been jailed.” Share