Joel Carroll, 23, has been jailed for 12 months after riding an e-bike dangerously in an attempt to evade police in Wirral. He was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday, September 9, after pleading guilty to dangerous driving, driving without insurance, driving while disqualified and failing to stop.
Chase through Wirral streets
The court heard that on Tuesday, September 8, officers spotted two electric bikes on Arrowe Park Road. Both riders failed to stop when instructed by police. Footage captured by Merseyside Police vehicles showed Carroll riding on pavements and on the wrong side of the road during the chase.
During the chase, he mounted a kerb and lost control of the bike before falling to the ground. Officers later found Carroll on Hambledon Drive, where he was arrested and the e-bike was seized.
Police warning over illegal bikes
Carroll, of Central Park Avenue, Liscard, was subsequently charged with the offences. Speaking after the sentencing, Inspector Simon Wilson said: "Carrol’s crimes endangered motorists and pedestrians that day after he rode in such a dangerous manner without a licence."
"He also put several of our officers at risk as he rode away from our police cars. Merseyside Police will not tolerate the dangerous use of illegal bikes on our roads and in our communities. We hope this sentence serves as a warning to others about the serious consequences of such behaviour."
Operation Gears continues
Through Operation Gears, the force continues to target offenders, seize illegal bikes and prevent harm. The campaign targets the illegal use of these vehicles linked to serious crime, robberies and antisocial behaviour across the region. Since its launch in June 2025, officers have seized more than 1,600 two-wheeled vehicles.
The operation continues to deliver results, with ongoing enforcement activity and proactive patrols targeting those who use vehicles to cause harm, fear and disruption in communities. Members of the public can report illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters or electric motorcycles via Merseyside Police's social media channels, website or by calling 101, quoting Op Gears. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.
