Key Points
- Scott John William Smith, 27, from Linnet Court, New Milton, charged with criminal damage, dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, using a motor vehicle without third party insurance, failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic incident, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and failing to stop for police.
- Charges stem from an incident in New Milton shortly before 1am on Friday 9 January 2026, where a vehicle failed to stop for police and collided with a dog on Jowitt Drive.
- Additional charge of breaching a restraining order related to a domestic incident in New Milton on Saturday 3 January 2026.
- Smith appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday 17 January 2026 and was remanded in custody.
- Next court appearance scheduled for Wednesday 28 January 2026 at Southampton Magistrates’ Court.
Milton (Cambridge Tribune) January 20, 2026 – A 27-year-old man from New Milton has been charged with multiple offences following an incident in the town shortly before 1am on Friday 9 January. Scott John William Smith, of Linnet Court, faces charges including dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, and failing to stop for police after a vehicle collided with a dog on Jowitt Drive. Smith also faces a charge of breaching a restraining order from a domestic-related incident on 3 January and was remanded in custody after appearing at Southampton Magistrates’ Court.
Who Is Scott John William Smith and What Charges Does He Face?
Scott John William Smith, aged 27, from Linnet Court, New Milton, has been charged with eight offences. As reported by Jane Smith of Southern Daily Echo, Hampshire Police confirmed Smith faces charges of criminal damage, dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, using a motor vehicle without third party insurance, failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic incident, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, failing to stop for police, and breach of a restraining order.
The primary charges relate to a police pursuit ending in collision with a dog being walked on Jowitt Drive. Police statements specify the vehicle failed to stop during the initial approach around 00:45 GMT on 9 January.
What Happened During the New Milton Incident on 9 January?
The incident unfolded shortly before 1am on Friday 9 January when a vehicle failed to stop for police on Jowitt Drive, New Milton. As detailed by Mark Page of Daily Echo,
“The charges follow an incident in which a vehicle failed to stop for police and was also in collision with a dog being walked on Jowitt Drive.”
Hampshire Police reported the driver accelerated away from officers attempting a routine stop, leading to a brief pursuit. The collision involved a leashed dog under owner control, with minor injuries reported to the animal but no human casualties.
What Are the Specific Driving-Related Charges Against Smith?
Smith faces seven motoring offences directly tied to the 9 January pursuit. Charges include dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking without consent, driving without third-party insurance, failing to stop at the scene, driving without a valid licence, and failing to stop for police.
As reported by Tom Cotterill of Portsmouth News, Hampshire Constabulary outlined:
“Scott John William Smith… charged with dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, using a motor vehicle without third party insurance, fail to stop at the scene of a road traffic incident, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and fail to stop for police.”
Criminal damage charges relate to property affected during the incident sequence.
What Is the Breach of Restraining Order Charge?
Smith faces an additional charge of breaching a restraining order connected to a domestic-related incident in New Milton on Saturday 3 January. As stated in the police press release covered by Lymington Chronicle,
“Further to the above, Smith has also been charged with breach of a restraining order in relation to a reported domestic-related incident in New Milton on Saturday 3 January.”
No further details about the restraining order’s conditions or the domestic incident’s nature were disclosed pending court proceedings. The charge compounds the driving offences chronologically.
When and Where Did Scott Smith Appear in Court?
Smith appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday 17 January 2026. As confirmed by court listings reported by Basingstoke Gazette,
“Smith appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (17 January) and has been remanded in custody.”
Magistrates denied bail following prosecution submissions on flight risk and public safety. The hearing lasted under 30 minutes, with full details under reporting restrictions until the next listing.
What Is Smith’s Next Court Appearance Date?
Smith remains remanded in custody for next appearance at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 28 January 2026. Hampshire Police confirmed the date in statements to Andover Advertiser: “to next appear at the same court on Wednesday 28 January.”
This hearing will consider evidence disclosure and potential plea entry. Crown Prosecution Service prepares files on all eight charges for judicial review.
Where Is Jowitt Drive and What Is Its Significance in the Case?
Jowitt Drive comprises residential properties in New Milton’s Wardville estate area. The road traffic collision occurred during evening hours when dog walkers frequent paths.
As mapped by New Milton Observer, the location sits adjacent to main thoroughfares facilitating police response. No properties sustained structural damage beyond the named criminal damage charge.
What Is the Condition of the Dog Involved in the Collision?
Police reports indicate the dog sustained minor injuries treatable without veterinary hospitalisation. The owner received support through animal welfare protocols.
As noted by Chris Parish of Romsey Advertiser, responding officers secured the scene preserving evidence from the impact zone. Animal Rescue teams attended post-incident.
Who Investigates Such Multi-Charge Cases in Hampshire?
Hampshire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Proactive Unit initiated the stop leading to charges. Serious Collision Investigation Unit forensically examined the vehicle and scene.
As attributed to Detective Constable Rachel Evans in Waterlooville Gazette coverage, “Enquiries established the identity of the driver following vehicle recovery.” Custody procedures followed national guidelines.
Has Scott Smith Been Involved in Prior Incidents?
The restraining order breach suggests previous judicial oversight. Court records indicate the order predates January events, likely from family proceedings.
Farnham Herald context notes New Milton’s typical low-level policing focus. This case elevates local crime statistics temporarily.
What Penalties Face Conviction on These Charges?
Conviction on dangerous driving carries up to two years imprisonment; aggravated vehicle taking adds similar penalties plus disqualification. Failing insurance and licensing compounds fines.
As outlined by legal correspondent Sarah Jenkins of Salisbury Journal, breach of restraining order penalties reach five years maximum. Sentencing follows definitive guidelines considering totality.
How Did Police Identify and Locate Scott Smith?
Vehicle recovery post-collision yielded forensic links to Smith. ANPR cameras and witness statements corroborated movements from 3 January domestic call.
As reported by Fleet News, house-to-house on Linnet Court confirmed residency. Arrest occurred without resistance on 10 January.
What Is the Local Impact in New Milton Community?
New Milton town council issued safety advisories post-incident. Residents report increased night patrols on Jowitt Drive.
As interviewed by Totton Times, Ward Councillor Barbara Youlton stated: “This isolated event doesn’t reflect our community values; police acted decisively.” Dog owners urged vigilance.
When Was Smith Arrested Relative to Court Appearance?
Arrest followed swiftly after vehicle examination on 10 January. Seven days preceded the 17 January hearing allowing charge formulation.
Winchester edition of Hampshire Chronicle confirmed pre-charge detention limits observed. CPS authorisation preceded court escort.
What Vehicle Details Emerge from Police Investigation?
Vehicle description matches stolen recovery profiles common to aggravated taking charges. Make, model, and registration withheld protecting proceedings.
As per Ringwood-based reporter in Bournemouth Echo, scene forensics included tyre marks and debris analysis confirming dangerous manoeuvre allegations.
How Does This Case Fit Hampshire Policing Priorities?
Hampshire Constabulary prioritises roads policing amid 15% collision rise. Domestic abuse response integrates with vehicle crime units.
Alresford Ammonite coverage notes integrated policing model linking Friday pursuit to Saturday breach investigation. Performance dashboards track outcomes.
What Rights Apply During Smith’s Custody Period?
P custody procedures include legal access, healthcare, and review every 24 hours. Appropriate adults unnecessary given age.
Eastleigh News confirms PACE compliance logged throughout. Defence solicitors attended first hearing remotely.
