Thomas Williams, a 35-year-old scaffolder and father expecting his second child, erupted in frustration after being sentenced to 14 months in prison for a high-speed electric bike crash during a police pursuit.
The incident occurred in the early hours of April 4 when police spotted three Sur-Ron e-bikes traveling along Edge Lane in Liverpool. The riders, dressed in black, ignored police commands to stop, prompting a chase. Williams lost control and crashed into a Vauxhall Zafira at a West Derby roundabout, performing a full somersault before landing on the ground. Fortunately, no one in the car was injured, though the vehicle was damaged.
Williams was taken to Aintree Hospital but refused to give blood samples for testing, though cannabis was found in his jacket pocket. In police interviews, he admitted to speeding out of fear upon seeing officers. Although the bike belonged to a friend, Williams acknowledged his reckless behavior and expressed remorse.
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At Liverpool Crown Court, Williams ranted about the sentence, declaring it a “madness” and lamenting having a child on the way. He criticized the justice system, comparing his punishment unfavorably to that of sex offenders. His mother and girlfriend, visibly upset, supported him during the hearing.
The court was informed of Williams’s extensive criminal history, including 19 convictions for 29 offences, notably a previous 44-month sentence for drug offenses.
Defence lawyer Olivia Belle highlighted his recent efforts to turn his life around since his release in late 2022, including securing employment as a scaffolder and abstaining from further offences. She urged the court to consider these positive changes, warning that imprisonment could set back his progress.
Sentencing, Judge Sarah O’Brien emphasized the recklessness of Williams’s actions and the potential for severe harm. She acknowledged his mental health struggles, including anxiety and possible PTSD and ADHD, as well as the support he has from his family. Williams also received a 49-month driving ban.
The case underscores the dangers of reckless e-bike use and the serious consequences of evading police, reminding riders of the risks to themselves and others on the road.