An 18-year-old from Birmingham has admitted to riding a high-powered electric dirt bike on a pavement, despite being disqualified from driving and uninsured, a court heard.
Gianni Blake, of Parkeston Crescent, Kingstanding, was observed by police on June 16 riding his Sur-Ron electric bike along Brookvale Road. Officers saw him manoeuvring around pedestrians on the pavement before colliding with a parked vehicle.
Blake initially passed the officers riding the bike but, as they did not react immediately, he did not believe his actions were problematic. At the time, he was disqualified from driving and did not hold valid insurance for the bike.
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He appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on September 8 and pleaded guilty to charges of driving without due care and attention, driving without insurance, and driving while disqualified.
Prosecutor Ms Begum stated, “Officers found the defendant riding along the pavement, avoiding pedestrians, and increasing speed. He then collided with a parked vehicle and was arrested; he had no valid insurance.”
Blake has four previous convictions, including similar offences, which the court considered an aggravating factor.
His solicitor explained that Blake had purchased the Sur-Ron online at a low cost, but it was not functioning properly. He was reportedly on his way to see his cousin to address the issues with the bike. The solicitor added that Blake was young and had pleaded guilty at the first opportunity, deserving full credit for this.
He further stated that Blake did not initially stop when the police officers were present as he received no immediate reaction from them and became worried when stopped, fearing potential aggressive action by the police. According to Blake, he only lightly touched the parked vehicle and ended up trapped in a garden before being arrested. The solicitor emphasised that no significant damage or injuries were caused.
Deputy District Judge Hinder remarked on Blake’s history, noting that previous interactions with the youth court had not deterred him from breaking road rules. The judge adjourned sentencing until November 10 to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.