Man jailed for 'reckless joyride' in double-decker through Watford Published duration 21 October 2016

media caption Drunken bus thief's 'reckless joyride' through Watford

A man who stole a double-decker bus and drove it through a town while over the drink-drive limit has been jailed.

Deepak Malhotra caused thousands of pounds of damage when he mounted kerbs, hit railings and jumped a red light after taking the vehicle from Watford Bus Station.

Malhotra, 35, admitted aggravated vehicle taking, driving whilst disqualified and drink driving.

He was jailed for one year, nine months at Harrow Crown Court.

image copyright Hertfordshire Police image caption Malhotra admitted aggravated vehicle taking, driving whilst disqualified and drink driving

Police filmed the chase as they pursued the bus through the streets of Watford during his three-mile spree.

The court heard Malhotra, who stole the bus on 7 July at 21:50 BST, eventually stopped it in Bushey Mill Lane and tried to get away. He was arrested nearby in St Albans Road.

Investigating officer PC Mark Logan said: "Malhotra caused thousands of pounds worth of damage as he dangerously drove around the streets of Watford and it is only pure luck that no-one was injured during his reckless joyride.

"He was both under the influence of alcohol and banned from driving at the time of the offence."

Related Topics Watford