Fleeing thieves dodge jail term
Notts brothers get suspended sentences after police pursuit
Two brothers who attempted to evade Nottinghamshire Police on a pair of stolen motorcycles by riding into oncoming traffic, have been handed suspended prison sentences in court.
Josh and Mark Bowler were apprehended last February after Josh, 21, took a bike from outside a shop in Sherwood, Nottingham.
Police traced the duo to the roads surrounding Broxtowe Country Park, where it became apparent that the other motorcycle being ridden had also been stolen – this time by 19-year-old Mark.
Attempting to flee officers, the pair used tactics including riding along the wrong side of the road, towards oncoming traffic. Josh then abandoned his bike and tried to jump on the back of his brother.
During this manoeuvre, police officers moved in – making low speed tactical contact with the siblings before they could ride away and sending them flying.
“The level of riding demonstrated by both Bowler brothers was incredibly dangerous and put other road users at risk,” Inspector Declan Bourne, of Nottinghamshire
Police said. “It is only thanks to some luck and the skilled driving of the officers in pursuit that there weren’t any injuries.”
Both brothers pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, and driving without insurance.
Josh Bowler appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing on January 5, receiving 15 months in prison, suspended for two years.
He was also banned from holding or obtaining a driving licence for 12 months and ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity.
Brother Mark appeared in September last year, and was sentenced to 12 months jail, suspended for 18 months.
Arrest after officer is struck
A Wiltshire police officer has been taken to hospital following an incident in which it’s believed he was struck by an electric motorcycle. A 17-year-old male was arrested following the incident on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
The collision took place in Swindon on January 13 and police are calling upon witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information should dial 101 and quote ref: 54240004756.
‘The brothers put other road users at risk’