(Image: Cleveland Police)
A 20-year-old man has been banned from driving after a police pursuit involving a stolen off-road motorbike.
Taylor Turnbull, of Helredale Road in Whitby, North Yorkshire, was arrested after officers spotted a stolen off-road bike being ridden by two men wearing balaclavas on June 7, 2025.
The bike was seen travelling through Middlesbrough on a dual carriageway and into the Ormesby area.
It was followed by both ground officers and the National Police Air Service (NPAS).
The pursuit ended on Cornhill Walk, where both men were arrested.
Turnbull was charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and no insurance.
Today (August 18, 2026), he appeared at Teesside Crown Court where he was given a six-month sentence, suspended for two years.
He was also handed a three-year driving ban and ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid work.
A second man was released without charge.
Read More:
PC Ian Widdas, a Matrix officer, said: "We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who cause harm to our communities; including those who use illegal off-road bikes, both in a dangerous manner and to carry out criminal activity."
He also urged the public to report information about illegal off-road bike use.
Anyone with information can contact Cleveland Police on 101. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.