Disqualified Driver Jailed After Speeding Stop Uncovers Drugs and Knife in Southampton

A disqualified driver caught speeding at 67mph in a 40mph zone has been jailed after police discovered drugs and a knife in his car during a roadside stop in Southampton.

Officers were carrying out laser speed enforcement checks on Millbrook Road West on 24 February when they recorded a Toyota travelling well above the limit. The vehicle was stopped and the driver identified as 42-year-old Arminas Grybas.

Checks revealed Grybas was not insured to drive the car and had already been disqualified from driving. The vehicle was seized at the scene.

While speaking to Grybas, PC Paul Morrison noticed a bag on the passenger seat. A search under Section 23 of the Misuse of Drugs Act uncovered a large quantity of cannabis and a lock knife.

Grybas, of Christchurch Road in Bournemouth, was charged with possession of cannabis with intent to supply, possession of a knife in a public place, driving without insurance, driving while disqualified, and speeding.

Appearing at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on 26 February, he pleaded guilty to all offences. He was sentenced to eight months in prison and handed a further 18-month driving ban.

PC Paul Morrison, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “Incidents like these really highlight the value of proactive policing. Issues around dangerous driving behaviours such as speeding are regularly raised to police which is one of the reasons why we conduct speed enforcement checks.

“But not only that, this type of enforcement gives us the opportunity to identify and target criminals who we know routinely use the road network around the county and over the borders to commit other offences.

“On this occasion, not only did we disrupt Grybas who was driving in a manner which puts the local community at risk, we were also able to get drugs and a knife off the street.”

Police continue to encourage members of the public to report concerns in their neighbourhoods by calling 101, helping officers understand which areas are most impacted by crime and anti-social behaviour so proactive action can be taken.