A driver under the influence of cocaine and alcohol, causing a crash with a police vehicle that resulted in severe injuries to an officer, has been sentenced to three years and two months in prison. Shaun Orchard, 23, was involved in a high-speed chase in Stockport on April 22 last year, where he collided with Tactical pursuit officer PC Rushton, leaving the officer with life-altering injuries.
Orchard had taken his stepdad’s car after consuming alcohol and cocaine. The pursuit began after Orchard was spotted on Crookilley Way near Bredbury Interchange around 3.50am. He led officers on a reckless chase, reaching speeds of up to 120mph on the M60, before exiting at junction 24 and driving at around 100mph on a 30mph road. PC Rushton joined the pursuit, and the collision occurred when Orchard ran a red light, crashing into the officer’s vehicle.
PC Rushton sustained severe injuries, including fractured ribs, a complex ankle fracture, a fractured arm, a ruptured bladder, cuts, bruises, and swelling. His emotional statement in court highlighted the devastating impact of the crash on his life, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Orchard, found with high levels of alcohol and benzoylecgonine in his system, pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicle taking and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
Judge Kevin Slack emphasized Orchard’s deliberate disregard for road safety rules and the prolonged reckless driving under the influence of drugs. Orchard was sentenced to imprisonment and a five-and-a-half-year driving ban. Detective Constable Adrian Beckford of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit condemned Orchard’s actions, emphasizing the risk posed to the public and officers during the pursuit. He praised the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved in bringing Orchard to justice and expressed concern for PC Rushton’s long-term recovery from the injuries sustained.