Lee Culleton, 42, was arrested on Sunday, December 15, after officers responded to reports of a stolen Renault van on the move. The local Community Policing Team tracked the vehicle to the A13, where the driver failed to stop for police. After a brief pursuit, officers from the Roads Policing Unit helped bring the van to a safe stop at the A127 in Rayleigh, and Culleton was arrested at 0.30 am.
On Monday, December 16, Culleton appeared at Southend-on-Sea Magistrates’ Court, where he faced multiple charges. He was accused of taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent on November 26, along with failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, and driving while disqualified. Further investigation revealed that Culleton was wanted on recall to prison.
Additionally, Culleton faced charges related to theft from a shop on November 29 and making off without payment in two separate incidents on December 11. Following his court appearance, Culleton was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on January 8, 2024.