Basildon: Somersaulting motorhome thief’s getaway foiled

A man who stole a motorhome and crashed after leading police on a chase through the streets of Aveley has pleaded guilty to theft and a string of driving offences.

Ricky Halford, 43, of Homefield Rise, Orpington, Kent, failed to stop for officers, rammed a police car, and then attempted to drive up a pedestrian walkway, only coming to a halt when the vehicle slammed into railings.

He then attempted a dismount worthy of gymnast Max Whitlock as he somersaulted from the footbridge down to the underpass below but was chased down and arrested.

He later admitted to the theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, failing to provide a specimen, and driving without insurance at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates' Court.

He will be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court in the week beginning the 6 July.

Sergeant Ben Bayley of Basildon Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

“Halford led officers on a dangerous and completely unnecessary pursuit. There was no chance he was ever going to evade us but instead of pulling over, he put the lives of other road users and pedestrians in danger.

“The motorhome is a huge vehicle and would have done serious damage to anyone coming into contact with it.

“Our Roads Policing officers quickly hunted Halford down after the theft was reported and we were pleased to arrest him before anyone was hurt.”

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