A CARLISLE man is facing jail for committing a raft of crimes – including one which led to £30,000 damage being caused to a Mercedes.
Ashley Paul Queen, 30, was told an immediate prison term was “highly likely” after he admitted eight offences at the city’s crown court today (TUES).
Queen admitted stealing the key for – and the aggravated taking of – a Mercedes 250 on August 7. The court heard an estimated £30,000 damage occurred after it was taken and before it was recovered. It is said the vehicle was burned out.
Queen pleaded guilty to stealing the registration plates of another Mercedes, and making off without making a £75 payment for fuel at a Moto service area, both on August 7.
He also admitted damaging both a security barrier at WM Plant, Carlisle, and a Cumbria police cell; breaching an anti-social behaviour order imposed in 2014 by driving a vehicle after 11pm; and failing to provide a breath specimen for analysis – all on August 8.
Judge Andrew Jefferies QC adjourned Queen’s case for the preparation of a psychiatric report, hearing of the defendant’s deteriorating mental health and “extremely bizarre” behaviour before committing the crimes.
Queen, of Dunmallet Rigg, Carlisle, is due to be sentenced at the crown court on December 19. Judge Jefferies told him: “It is highly likely that an immediate custodial sentence will be imposed for these offences. The question is of length.”