Officers in South Shields tackled a teenager to the ground after he goaded them while riding an electric motorbike at speed on pavements in the town centre. The rider was putting "both himself and members of the public at serious risk" and taunting officers inside a marked police car.
Officers deploy plain-clothed team
Northumbria Police officers on patrol were the first to spot the teenager. They parked their vehicle on King Street and kept the rider's attention long enough for plain-clothed officers to be deployed to the scene. The rider did not anticipate what happened next, as officers used the element of surprise to stop him in his tracks.
Vehicle seized and crushed
The vehicle was seized and crushed by police, and the teenager was returned home by officers, with relevant referrals submitted. In a social media post, a Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Let us be clear, if riders put people’s safety at risk and choose to ride illegally in our force area, we will track them down and remove and crush their vehicles."
The spokesperson added: "These vehicles are not toys, we have seen riders and members of the public seriously injured and, in some cases, lose their lives as a result of their illegal and irresponsible use. You can be reassured that tackling motorcycle-related disorder remains a priority across our entire force area."
Appeal for public reports
Neighbourhood officers, specialist teams and partners are working together daily to identify offenders and disrupt illegal activity. The spokesperson noted: "Every report we receive helps us build a clearer picture of where and when this behaviour is taking place. The information provided by you enables us to identify hotspots, target patrols and enforcement activity, and focus resources where they are needed most."
Members of the public are encouraged to report motorcycle-related disorder via a direct message on social media or by submitting a report form on the Northumbria Police website.
