A BMW driver injured a police officer when he sped away from a hotel car park after being ordered to stop.

Leighton Henson went on trial accused of dangerous driving following the incident at the Ibis Hotel in Malpas, Newport, on January 20, 2020.

A jury was deadlocked and the prosecution decided not pursue a re-trial after the defendant pleaded guilty to careless driving.

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Police were following Henson, who was driving a BMW 3 series car, because they received a tip-off the vehicle was involved in drug dealing.

Prosecutor Paul Hewitt said when the defendant’s brother came out of the hotel, the police told them to stop.

He added: “Officers shouted at them to stop and smashed a window but the defendant drove off at speed.

“Injury was caused after PC Lowri Davies suffered bruising to her arm.”

Cardiff Crown Court heard the prosecution decided it was "not in the public interest" to seek a re-trial.

Judge Michael Fitton QC banned Henson, 27, of Ringland Circle, Newport, from driving for 12 months and fined him £100.

He must pay £80 costs and a £34 surcharge.

The judge also ordered that the defendant’s electronic tag be removed.