Speeding driver's escape foiled by German Shepherd

A driver who made off on foot after a high-speed police chase was stopped in his tracks by a German Shepherd.

Michael Burke sped at more than 100mph (160km/h) from Essex into east London before officers caught up with him on 14 January.

The 24-year-old abandoned his car by the A13 in Rainham, but his attempt to escape through swampy grassland was foiled by police dog Kaiser.

Burke, of Horseman Side, Navestock, was jailed for 14 months after admitting a series of driving offences.

He was first seen speeding, undertaking vehicles and moving between lanes on the A13 at North Stifford, having failed to stop for police.

Burke also drove on the wrong side of the carriageway at one point as he headed towards London, Essex Police said.

He jumped out of his car and ran off at Ferry Lane, Rainham, but was caught by Kaiser moments later.

PC Niall Barrett, who led the investigation, said: "He felt he had no choice other than to try to evade capture on foot.

"But he didn't reckon on police dog Kaiser being there when he did so."

Burke admitted dangerous driving, using a vehicle without insurance and driving while disqualified.

During sentencing at Basildon Crown Court, he was disqualified from driving for five years.

"Burke gave no thought to the safety of those motorists whose lives he endangered that night," Mr Barrett added.

"He has now been jailed and our roads are safer for that."

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