A MAN has been jailed for 18 months for hitting a police car in a pursuit, and ordered to may more than $10,000 in compensation to a handful of victims of his break-ins.
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Joshua Ty Tehoata won't be eligible for release until April next year after he was sentenced for a string of offences in Guyra.
The 27-year-old was behind the wheel of a black Holden Commodore ute when he caught the eye of police just before 5.30pm on April 2.
When he saw officers, Tehoata accelerated away at speed from officers on White Street.
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A chase was initiated when he failed to stop for police. The ute then entered a driveway on Ollera Street where police claimed at the time he reversed into their car and drove off towards Ebor Road.
Police tried to block the street where Tehoata was alleged to have crashed into the front of the car, before officers pounced and arrested him.
When police searched the ute they seized a knife, an electronic stun device, ammunition, cannabis, as well as unauthorised prescription medication.
Further checks on Tehoata revealed he was behind a break-in at a shop on Bradley Street about 3.30am on March 22. Inside he stole cash and other goods.
About 24 hours later, he broke into a Bradley Street hotel and stole cash and keys.
He was initially charged with 10 offences by police and has been in custody since his arrest.
In Armidale Local Court, magistrate Michael Holmes jailed the Guyra local for 18 months with a non-parole period of 12 months. He pleaded guilty to charges of police pursuit - but it wasn't his first offence.
He also admitted to driving while disqualified; carrying a knife in public; possessing a weapon without a permit; and two counts of break, enter and steal.
He was also convicted without further penalty for charges of possessing ammunition as well as prohibited and prescribed drugs. A charge of driving recklessly or dangerously was withdrawn in court.
In relation to the break-ins, he was ordered to pay $1895 to one victim in compensation, and $9150 to two others.
The sentence was backdated to his arrest, meaning after time served he will be eligible for release in April 2021.
Breanna Chillingworth
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
