A man from Aldershot has been handed a 3½-year custodial sentence after being found guilty of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a road accident.
At around 5pm, on November 24, 2023, a bailiff was in the process of seizing the car of 41-year-old Russell Bishop. Bishop’s black Mercedes was outside his home address in Masterson Close. Bishop, on seeing that his car was about to be taken away, jumped on top of the bailiff’s recovery truck, and reversed the Mercedes off the back. He then drove over the bailiff, causing him serious leg injuries. He continued driving at speed, and hastily left the scene.
Police later found Bishop’s car abandoned at West Hope’s Grant Road. He was subsequently arrested at his home address. The victim suffered a broken tibia and fibula, and required surgery at Frimley Park Hospital, where a metal rod was attached to his right ankle and right knee.
Bishop denied the offences, but was found guilty at a trial held at Winchester Crown Court. On April 4, 2025, he was sentenced by the same court to 3½ years in prison and given a 5-year driving ban.
In the Road Traffic Act 1988, dangerous driving is defined as driving that falls significantly below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver and is obviously dangerous. Quality guidance and support are essential for anyone facing a charge of dangerous driving; solicitors can give sound advice on possible defences and likely sentences.