A reckless biker led police on a dangerous pursuit through a Nottinghamshire town where he drove on the wrong side of the road. Police officers patrolling in marked cars saw Steven Roberts’ uninsured motorcycle on July 21, 2022 in Sheepbridge Lane, Mansfield, before approaching the bike and attempting to pull it over.
Roberts, 46, then became uneasy and sped off in an attempt to evade them shortly after 2.20pm. A pursuit then ensued, with the biker racing through the streets of Mansfield during his escape attempt.
The high-speed chase became more dangerous as Roberts weaved through oncoming cars and even used the wrong side of the road to bypass slower vehicles. Despite his efforts, police officers tracked him to his address, where he was found undressed with his helmet and jacket off.
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He was later arrested and charged with dangerous driving - something he pleaded guilty to in court. Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing on Wednesday, February 15, Roberts, of HMP Lincoln, was jailed for 12 months and disqualified from driving for three years and six months.
PC Paul Kingston, who was one of the officers who pursued Roberts, said: “The way he was driving on that day put everyone in danger – other road users, pedestrians, police officers and even himself.
“Speeding through residential streets in this way could have had utterly devastating consequences with someone being seriously injured or worse dying.
“By weaving through vehicles and even going onto the other side of the road to avoid us catching up with him he showed just how intent he was on avoiding being arrested.
“I want to send a strong message to any biker or motorists who believes they can avoid us, or drive on our roads without insurance and a licence that we will catch up with you. You’re putting other drivers and members of the public at severe risk.
“The road laws are there for a reason and when we do catch you, we will put you in front of the courts for placing yourself, our officers, and innocent members of the public at risk of serious harm.
“Being part of the knife crime team doesn’t just mean we are focused on knife crime offenders and weapon-enabled crime. As this incident shows we come across a whole host of other offences too and will always do what we can to keep our streets and the community safe.”
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