A "car fixated" mentally impaired driver drove the wrong way along the M32 with no lights on and a flat tyre, a court heard.
Bristol Crown Court was told Luke Gillespie had sustained three serious head injuries and suffered from cognitive impairment as well as psychotic illness and participated in substance abuse. The 34-year-old, of St Philip Street in Bedminster, pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without consent, and dangerous driving while disqualified and uninsured.
Though he was judged to be unfit to be tried he was also found to have committed an act of robbery months later. Today (Tuesday, March 1) Judge James Patrick, who considered evidence from two doctors, imposed a restricted Hospital Order.
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He said it was a miracle no one was injured by Gillespie's actions, adding: "Mr Gillespie has a fixation with cars. Coupled with substance abuse that is a dangerous combination.
"There is a significant risk of serious harm from him in relation to driving matters. And robbery is a pernicious offence."
Caitlin Evans, prosecuting, told the court it was 2.36am in August 2020 when police spotted a VW car without light on stopped at a red traffic light in Midland Road, Old Market. When they flashed their lights and drew up alongside it, driver Gillespie accelerated away with his wheels spinning on the wet road.
Miss Evans said ultimately Gillespie was seen to join the M32 the wrong way, still with his lights off and having got a puncture. When the car slowed Gilliespie jumped out - with the VW still rolling - and was arrested nearby.
He told police he would have "smoked them" if it wasn't for his flat tyre, Miss Evans said. He added that he had a brain injury and had been using cannabis and crack cocaine. He refused a roadside breath test and was not prosecuted for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It transpired the VW had been taken the day before, without consent, having been packed for a family break. Gillespie, who had two previous convictions for taking a vehicle without consent, made no comment when interviewed.
The court heard in May 2021 Gillespie robbed a man of an electric scooter after threatening to stab him. Gillespie was unfit to stand trial but it was found to have committed robbery.
Gareth James, defending, said: "This is a gentleman with quite severe psychiatric needs which are susceptible to treatment. He has an unenviable record of taking risks which have the potential to put the public at risk."
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