By Alesha Capone
A man who intentionally rammed a stolen truck into a police car in Wyndham Vale has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison.
Jason Borg, 30, faced the County Court earlier this month, where he pleaded guilty to offences including damaging an emergency service vehicle; exposing an emergency worker to risk by driving; handling stolen goods; and possession of a drug of dependence.
The court heard that on July 14, 2018, Borg – who was on bail at the time for breaching a family violence notice – was driving a stolen Ford Trader truck, pulling a large tandem trailer.
Two constables on patrol spotted the truck, followed it to Black Forest Road and pulled Borg over.
Judge John Smallwood said before the officers could exit their vehicle, Borg “deliberately reversed” the truck and trailer into the police car.
“You were driving a large truck with a large trailer and it is clear… the two police officers were not just put at risk for their safety, they were clearly in my view, put at risk of death,” Judge Smallwood said.
After driving away from the scene, Borg later drove the truck at two unmarked police vehicles, which had to take “evasive action” to avoid being hit, the court heard.
Borg later attempted to drive the truck across a pedestrian bridge at Lollypop Creek Reserve, but ran from the scene on foot after the vehicle became stuck.
He was arrested a short time later, after being seen on the roof of a nearby house by the police air wing. After being searched, police found Borg in possession of a small bag of amphetamines.
Judge Smallwood sentenced Borg to a total of seven years and three months in prison, including the 481 days he has already spent in custody. Borg will be eligible for parole after four years.
