Joel Carrol, 23, has been jailed for 12 months after admitting a string of driving offences following a police chase in Upton. Footage released by Merseyside Police shows Carrol riding an e-bike on the wrong side of the road and weaving in and out of traffic as he attempted to evade officers.
Chase and arrest
Liverpool Crown Court heard on Wednesday, September 9, that officers had spotted Carrol riding one of two electric bikes on Arrowe Park Road on Tuesday, September 8. Both riders failed to stop when instructed by police.
Footage captured by Merseyside Police vehicles showed Carrol riding on pavements and on the wrong side of the road during the pursuit. At one point, he mounted a kerb and lost control of the bike, falling to the ground before getting back up and continuing to flee.
Officers later found Carrol on Hambledon Drive, where he was arrested and the e-bike was seized.
Sentencing and warning
Carrol, of Central Park Avenue, Liscard, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving without insurance, driving while disqualified and failing to stop. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison.
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.
“Through Operation Gears, we continue to target offenders, seize illegal bikes, prevent harm and protect the wider community across Merseyside.”
Operation Gears
Operation Gears is the Merseyside Police campaign targeting 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.
If you see any illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters, or electric motorcycles, please contact us via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’. You can also report information on the force's website or call 101, quoting Op Gears. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.
