A MOTORIST hit speeds of up to 80mph on a Carlisle industrial estate in pursuit of his former partner and also stalked her over several weeks.

Keiran McDonald, 27, was seen by the woman to be following her while he was behind the wheel of a Vauxhall Insignia in the Kingstown area on the night of October 25 last year.

“She was driving around an industrial estate on her way to McDonald’s,” Recorder Brian Whitehead said to McDonald as he summarised the offence during a sentencing hearing at Carlisle Crown Court today (tues).

“You were observed to be tail-gating her, right up (to her vehicle), but not touching.”

The woman’s friend called police. Officers saw McDonald overtake his ex-partner’s vehicle during a period of over two miles. “You drove at speeds of up to 80mph in a 30mph zone, in residential areas at night when it was dark,” said the judge. “Thankfully there were no collisions or injuries.”

That incident ended an almost month-long period of stalking by McDonald of his former partner during October.

There was evidence, said the judge, of him monitoring her movements, checking her phone and regularly alleging that she was having relationships with others. McDonald had also picked arguments with the woman, removed car keys, pushed and shoved her, and made suicide and death threats towards her.

“It was persistent, over a long period with serious threats of violence,” said Recorder Whitehead.

The woman had since withdrawn a statement to police but in earlier dialogue had outlined “very substantial impact”.

On November 18, McDonald was taken into custody following a breach of bail. Concerns led to him being taken to hospital but he was discharged after checks. “As you were taken back to the van, you ran off,” said the judge.

There was a short foot chase before officers lost sight of McDonald but he was located several hours later.

When brought to court, McDonald, of Whernside, Carlisle, admitted dangerous driving, stalking and escape.

Defence lawyer Jeff Smith gave mitigation which included background about McDonald’s relationship with the woman.

After hearing submissions, Recorder Whitehead said he was persuaded to suspend a 40-week jail term for two years. He concluded McDonald did not present a risk or danger to the public, and that immediate imprisonment would have a significant impact on his five children.

McDonald must complete a rehabilitation requirement and was banned from driving for a year. He must also complete an extended re-test before his licence is returned.