SCOTT John William Smith has been jailed for not stopping for police before running over a dog – which had to be put down – in New Milton.

The 27-year-old, of Linnet Court, New Milton, was sentenced to 16 months behind bars when he appeared before Southampton Crown Court on February 25 having pleaded guilty to a range of charges at a previous hearing.

He was jailed for dangerous driving, criminal damage, aggravated vehicle taking, failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic incident, using a motor vehicle without third party insurance and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

The incident unfolded at just before 1am on January 9 when Smith, driving a Ford Puma car, failed to stop for police in Jowitt Drive before colliding with a dog, which was being walked at the time.

Due to the injuries suffered, the dog had to be put to sleep, police said.

Smith, who failed to remain at the scene of the incident, was arrested at a New Milton address on January 15, when officers found him hiding under a bed.

As well as the time he will now spend behind bars, Smith, who was also jailed for a separate breach of restraining order offence, was also disqualified from driving for 20 months and will have to take an extended test.

In a victim personal statement, read out at court, the dog’s owner, said: “I had my dog for approximately nine years, since she was a puppy. She was a wonderful and loyal dog with a beautiful nature. She loved walks and went everywhere with me.

“She was my companion and best friend. She was a family dog who loved my children and loved everybody. Losing her in such a tragic way has broken my heart.”

Investigating the incident and offences was Police Staff Investigator Katie Stafford and officers from New Milton Neighbourhood Policing Team.

After the sentencing, PSI Stafford, said: “This is a tragic incident, where the life of a beloved family pet has been taken as a direct result of Smith’s careless and selfish actions.

“Not only did he take a vehicle that did not belong to him, but he then attempted to evade capture when officers spotted him driving it.

“On the morning in question, he had no regard for anyone or anything in his way, other than himself and his own desire to avoid having to face up to the consequences of his offending.

“However, we were determined to ensure that Smith ultimately had to face up to his crimes, and he will now have considerable time to reflect upon his actions.

“I hope the justice served here will offer the victim some comfort and closure as she continues to come to terms with the loss of her dog.”

READ MORE: Crime news from your New Stour & Avon