A disqualified driver has been caught riding a four-year-old's electric off-road bike along a busy road in Newcastle. Connor Rock, a father of two, risked imprisonment when he decided to use the child's toy on Ponteland Road.
Court Proceedings
Newcastle Magistrates' Court heard that the 30-year-old was banned from driving for 20 months in November 2025 after failing to provide a breath specimen. Police spotted him on the off-road bike in February, and because it had an electric motor, he was not allowed to ride it in a public place.
Rock, of Magnolia Crescent, Blakelaw, pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified and driving without insurance. Prosecutor Glenda Beck stated that officers saw him on the child's bike in the Blakelaw area on February 22. Rock admitted he was disqualified at the scene.
Defending, Nick Kell said Rock had a glowing report from the Probation Service and was doing well on his community order. He noted the bike belonged to Rock's four-year-old stepson, emphasizing its small size.
Sentence and Remarks
District Judge Kate Meek gave Rock an eight-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. She said: 'I'm delighted that you're doing so well on your community order. Your children are always a good reason to stop and think about your behaviour. You have never had a driving licence. You were at risk to others, including young children.'
The judge added: 'There were potential risks to a huge number of people, including children, so, perhaps, you will think through your behaviour in future. Your children will benefit greatly from having both their parents around and not with having their father coming to court at risk of going to prison.'
Rock was also banned from driving for an additional 12 months.
