A lorry driver, John Wickson, aged 55, has been sentenced to 16 months in jail for his reckless actions that nearly cost the lives of two police officers. The incident occurred on the A1 when Wickson failed to stop after colliding with a patrol vehicle, forcing the officers to take evasive measures.

The terrifying event unfolded on the night of October 26, 2017, near North Muskham, where officers responded to reports of an oil spill. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered a broken-down vehicle on a flyover bridge and strategically parked their patrol vehicle across lane one, bringing northbound traffic to a halt.

As the officers were placing cones and walking back to their vehicle, they spotted Wickson’s HGV approaching directly towards them. With quick thinking, both officers leaped over a safety barrier to avoid being struck by the oncoming lorry. Despite their efforts, the HGV crashed into the patrol car, causing significant damage and showering the officers in glass and debris.

Wickson callously continued driving up the northbound dual carriageway for over eight miles, evading justice momentarily. However, diligent efforts by South Yorkshire Police led to his eventual arrest during an unrelated incident in Sheffield earlier this year.

Although Wickson made initial court appearances, he failed to attend his sentencing at Nottingham Crown Court, leading to a warrant for his arrest. The determined pursuit by law enforcement ultimately ensured he faced consequences for his dangerous driving.

Sergeant Rob Harrison, one of the officers involved in the incident, expressed relief at the verdict, stating, “The standard of driving displayed by Wickson that night was appalling. Thankfully we were able to take evasive action, but with a moment’s indecision, the outcome could have been very different.”