Luke Don Henderson sentenced to two years jail for police chase on foot through the streets of Devonport

A woman and two children under the age of 10 never expected to have a shoplifter jump in the back seat of their car while driving to the shops. His sentence.

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While running away from police on foot after shoplifting from Katmandu in Devonport, 37-year-old Luke Don Henderson jumped into the back seat of a car with two young children — aged 9 and 2 — in it, and court has heard.

“Drive, drive, drive, just f--king drive,” Henderson told the female driver.

Police apprehended Henderson shortly after, but Justice Tamara Jago said the incident had “badly affected” the driver.

“Whilst it was occurring, she was very concerned about the wellbeing of her children,” Justice Jago said.

“She has been left feeling anxious and emotional and will no longer attend shopping centres by herself.

“She has experienced panic attacks and nightmares.”

Henderson had pleaded guilty to a count each of aggravated assault and attempting to escape concerning the events on February 25.

Justice Jago said he and another man stole some clothing items from Katmandu, which a police officer observed.

Supreme Court Justice Tamara Jago. Picture: Supplied.

After spotting the police officer, Henderson started running away.

The officer radioed for backup as he ran towards Devonport Woolworths on Best Street.

At one point during the chase, Henderson was pepper sprayed by police.

Justice Jago said that while it affected him, he kept running.

As a woman was parking her car, Henderson opened the rear driver’s side door and entered the back seat.

A police officer opened the driver’s door and turned off the ignition before Henderson exited the car.

He was caught by police a short time later after being cornered in a nearby shop and restrained.

Justice Jago said Henderson had a lengthy criminal record, issues with drug and alcohol addiction, and acquired a brain injury in 2016.

She believed his moral culpability was “lessened” and should be sentenced on that basis.

“That said, there is no doubt this was very serious offending,” Justice Jago said.

“You exposed an innocent member of the community and her young children to your chaotic and confronting behaviour.

“She has been left traumatised.”

Henderson was sentenced to two years in prison, backdated to May 15, and will not be eligible for parole until he has served half his jail term.

Originally published as Luke Don Henderson sentenced to two years jail for police chase on foot through the streets of Devonport