A gang who rammed an e-bike shop and stole thousands of pounds worth of stock were caught after leading police on a 'dangerous' chase through the streets of Cheshire.
Saul Blackley, 33, Jordan Buckle, 24, and Adam Hodson, 36, all from Greater Manchester, were all involved in the burglary of the bike shop on Hollands Road in Northwich on August 5 last year.
Liverpool Crown Court heard how at around 12.30am, police were alerted by a caller than the unit had been rammed, and a number of high value bikes had been stolen.
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Police descended on the scene and while en route, one officer spotted a white Volkswagen Crafter van which was travelling at speed near to Leicester Street roundabout.
The officer began pursuing the vehicles as it travelled along Manchester Road and into Lostock Gralam. The trio eventually abandoned the vehicle after driving into a dead-end road.
All three men attempted to flee the scene on foot, but officers flooded the area and the trio were arrested after being found hiding in nearby gardens.
Officers also recovered all of the stolen items inside the abandoned van and discovered clothing and gloves worn by the suspects dumped nearby.
Saul Blackley, of Goldrill Avenue, Bolton was sentenced to 12 months in prison for burglary other than a dwelling and possession of a class B drug (Cannabis).
Jordan Buckle, of Dickinson Street West, Horwich, Bolton was sentenced to 12 months in prison for burglary other than a dwelling. He was also banned from driving for three years and nine months for failing to provide a specimen.
Adam Hodson, of Suffolk Street, Salford was sentenced to 12 months in prison for burglary other than a dwelling and failing to provide a specimen.
Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Claire Heatley, of Northwich Proactive Team, said: "The actions of these three men had a significant impact on the business.
"Not only did the men steal almost £10,000 worth of stock, but they also caused significant damage to the exterior of building, which resulted in loss of trade and cost almost £18,000 to repair.
"In addition, the business will also be forced to relocate as their landlord refused to renew the lease at the end of the current term because of the burglary.
"Thankfully, as a result of the quick-thinking officer, and the subsequent investigation, all three men have now been held accountable for their actions and all of the stolen items have been recovered and returned.
"I hope that the conclusion of this case will provide some closure to the business owners, and also acts as reassurance to other local residents and businesses, demonstrating how we are committed to doing all we can to tackle burglary.
"I also hope that the sentence acts as a warning to any other criminals planning to come across the border and target Northwich – the message is clear we will be waiting for you and we will get you."
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