WATCH: Drug dealer jailed after 130mph police pursuit on A1(M) ended in serious collision near Tadcaster

A drug dealer has been jailed for eight years after a high-speed police pursuit ended in a serious collision with a taxi on the A1(M) near Tadcaster.

James Johnson, 31, from Salford, was sentenced at York Crown Court after admitting possession of cocaine with intent to supply, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and driving without a licence or insurance.

The court heard that Johnson was driving a white Audi A3 northbound on the A1(M) on the afternoon of August 28, when officers from North Yorkshire Police, acting on intelligence, attempted to stop the vehicle.

Rather than pulling over, Johnson accelerated away, weaving through heavy traffic at speeds of more than 130mph.

The pursuit ended near Junction 44, where the A1(M) meets the A659 near Tadcaster, when Johnson's Audi collided with a taxi.

The taxi driver suffered serious injuries, including broken bones.

Following Johnson's arrest, officers searched the Audi and discovered 10kg of white powder, which was later confirmed to be cocaine.

Johnson pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and driving without a licence or insurance.

In addition to the eight-year prison sentence, the court ordered that Johnson be deprived of the Audi.

Detective Constable Will Robertson, of North Yorkshire Police, said: "Johnson showed a blatant disregard for other drivers on what was a very busy road.

"His car contained a large amount of cocaine, which would have spread further misery in our communities.

"And his dangerous driving resulted in serious injuries to a taxi driver, and destroyed his means of earning a living – his taxi.

"Johnson has now been made to face the consequences of his actions."