Seven arrested for allegedly riding bikes dangerously in St Helens

On Tuesday, November 8, it was reported that groups of youths were riding bikes anti-socially at various locations through St Helens.

Residents reported that the "ride out" was part of 17-year-old Harley Lea's funeral procession. The teenager died following a collision between a car and two motorbikes on Boardmans Lane last month.

READ > Boy, 17, dies after crash involving car and two motorbikes

A quad bike that has been seized by police (Image: Merseyside Police)

While groups had come to pay their respects to Harley, some bikers were reported to be speeding and riding in a "dangerous manner".

Others were reported to have been driving on the wrong side of the road.

Once aware of the alleged anti-social behaviour, officers from the Merseyside Police Roads Policing Unit and a National Police Air Service helicopter followed the bikers.

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After stopping the riders, officers arrested seven males on suspicion of theft offences and offences under the Road Traffic Act.

Following enquiries, a total of 14 bikes and one van were seized, with six bikes confirmed as being stolen.

All seven suspects remain in custody. 

Great teamwork by all strands of Matrix to tackle Anti Social & Criminal use of motorcycles during a 'rideout' in St Helens. 14 bikes were seized, 6 already confirmed as stolen & 7 males have been arrested. If you have any info where bikes like these are being stored, ring 101. pic.twitter.com/lLBM6P8PaQ

— Roads Policing Unit (@MerPolTraffic) November 8, 2022

Chief Inspector Steve Hardy said: “Driving in this manner, as well as illegally without insurance or a licence puts other road users at risk and causes fears to law abiding motorists as well as pedestrians.

“I’d reiterate to anyone in the community who knows who is riding scrambler bikes or where they are stored, to work with us and we will keep responding to make our roads and communities safer.”

Seven men were arrested following the reports of dangerous driving (Image: Merseyside Police)

Anyone with information or CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone, or has any information about the antisocial use of motorbikes is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK anonymously on 0800 555 111.