Pedestrians in Carmarthen’s Lammas Street had to run to safety as a car was reversed at speed along the road. Anthony Wray then abandoned the car and fled the scene, but a public-spirited taxi driver witnessed the incident and followed him to a nearby car park. Swansea Crown Court heard that Wray has a history of motoring offences, including driving under the influence, driving while disqualified, and failing to stop after an accident. His barrister stated that Wray regretted his “impulsive” actions on the day in question.
According to Caitlin Brazel, prosecuting, police received emergency calls on August 10 about a car being driven recklessly in Carmarthen town center. The vehicle collided with parked cars, prompting pedestrians to flee. Officers, assisted by the taxi driver witness, located the car in a nearby car park. CCTV footage confirmed the dangerous driving incident, showing Wray reversing at high speed the wrong way down a one-way street, causing damage to parked cars and forcing pedestrians to run for safety.
During the court hearing, the prosecution revealed that Wray’s partner had attempted to prevent him from driving by deflating the car’s tires. Despite initial hesitance, she eventually disclosed this information to the police. Wray, aged 36, pleaded guilty to common assault and dangerous driving. With a history of multiple driving-related convictions, Wray was sentenced to 12 months in prison, concurrently for both charges. Additionally, he was disqualified from driving for three and a half years and required to pass an extended test before regaining his licence.
Recorder Simon Hughes condemned Wray’s actions as “disgraceful” and highlighted the risk he posed to the public. He urged Wray to take responsibility for his actions, noting his wasted opportunities in the past. With a one-third discount for his guilty plea, Wray was ordered to serve at least half of his sentence before being released on licence. The court emphasised the need for consequences for such reckless behaviour on the roads.