A MAN who stole a car in Kinmel Bay before he led police on a high-speed chase while he was drunk has been sentenced to detention in a young offenders’ institution (YOI).

Brandon Foden, 20, of Wharton Avenue, Manchester, was handed a three-year term at a YOI at Caernarfon Crown Court today (May 2).

He had previously admitted taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent, burglary of a dwelling, vehicle interference, drink-driving, and driving dangerously and without a licence and insurance.

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Prosecuting, Jemma Gordon told the court that, at about 12.30am on April 9, Kaley Prime was alerted by her Ring doorbell to Foden standing outside her door.

Foden then drove off in Ms Prime’s Seat mobility vehicle, having also discarded a number of items from the glove box in her daughter’s Mercedes car.

He was under the influence of alcohol at the time, and did not have a valid licence or insurance, either.

Police were contacted, and after Foden was found to have driven from Kinmel Bay on to the A55, officers attempted to stop him with the use of a “stinger”.

In wet conditions, Foden was found to be driving at speeds of up to 95mph, with two of the vehicle’s tyres deflating all the while.

Eventually, he slowed down enough for officers to stop him, and as he was detained, he repeatedly said: “I’m sorry”.

Ms Prime said the incident left her feeling “really vulnerable”, adding that her husband is now without his wheelchair, as it was stored in her vehicle.

Though her car was recovered, as of April 24, it was with Ms Prime’s insurance company, with repairs being carried out and locks being checked.

Foden, who had three previous convictions for 11 offences, was subject to two suspended custodial sentences at the time of this incident.

Defending him, Simon Killeen said his client has “ongoing mental health issues” and is “undoubtedly an immature young man”.

“He knows that the end of the line has been reached, in terms of other options,” Mr Killeen said.

Foden plans to obtain qualifications in bricklaying and gain “meaningful employment” upon his release.

Sentencing, Judge Timothy Petts disqualified Foden from driving for four-and-a-half years.

He must then pass an extended retest before being allowed on the roads, and is to pay compensation of £228 to Ms Prime.

Judge Petts told Foden: “You were lucky you didn’t kill yourself, or somebody else.

“You just don’t understand how serious these offences are, and how dangerous your driving is.”