Belvedere driver spared jail after 96mph crash breaks ex-partner’s spine

A driver who crashed at 96mph on a 50mph roundabout in Belvedere, breaking his ex-partner’s spine, has avoided immediate prison. Michael Frank-Umoh, 29, of Pattison Walk in Plumstead, was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on 10 August 2026 for causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The crash happened in the early hours of New Year’s Day 2025 at Belvedere Horse Roundabout. Frank-Umoh’s former partner, who was in the passenger seat, suffered a broken vertebra after the car flipped onto its roof. Prosecutor Jo Morris told the court the victim had repeatedly warned him to slow down.

Warnings ignored before crash

The court heard Frank-Umoh had persuaded his ex-partner to meet him at 4am after a night out. She expected to talk in his car but he insisted on driving to a McDonald’s in Belvedere. During the journey, his driving became erratic. The victim told him his speed was frightening and that a passing police car would stop them.

Frank-Umoh laughed at her warning, the court heard. Moments later, the victim saw the speedometer read 96mph as they approached the roundabout. She recalled the car hitting the roundabout without braking, flipping into the air, and landing on its roof. An eyewitness said the car showed no sign of slowing before the impact.

Alcohol reading above legal limit

Police recorded Frank-Umoh’s blood-alcohol level at 66 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35. The court heard he initially left the scene before returning, making comments about the damage to his car rather than checking on his passenger. He later pleaded guilty to the charge.

Judge suspends prison sentence

Judge Alice Robinson accepted Frank-Umoh was remorseful but noted his initial reaction at the scene showed little concern for his ex-partner. She suspended a 21-month prison sentence, citing his lack of previous convictions and low risk of reoffending. The sentence includes 150 hours of unpaid work and a three-month curfew.

Frank-Umoh was disqualified from driving for two years. He must pass an extended retest before his licence can be reinstated. His defence lawyer, Mark Fraser, told the court his client was a hard-working professional with no prior driving offences. Fraser said tension between the defendant and victim contributed to the crash.

What happens next

Frank-Umoh must complete 150 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months. His three-month curfew is in effect immediately. The two-year driving ban began on 10 August 2026. He cannot apply for a provisional licence until the ban expires.