Police release footage of moment Billy Stokoe is arrested for causing the death of Gloria Stephenson
Stokoe is seen asking the police officer if Gloria is dead
Northumbria Police has released video footage of the moment Billy Stokoe was arrested and taken into custody.
Much-loved mother and grandmother Gloria Stephenson, 86, was making her way across a zebra crossing in Burdon Road, Silksworth, Sunderland, when she was hit by Stokoe, who was illegally riding a Sur-Ron electric bike.
In February this year, Stokoe admitted causing death by driving an unregistered electric motorcycle dangerously.
He also admitted causing death while driving without a licence or insurance.
Today (May 15) he returned to Newcastle Crown Court where he was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison.
Superintendent Billy Mulligan, who led the investigation confirmed to the Echo that Billy was told by his mother to “do the right thing and hand himself in” after she recognised her son in an appeal released by Northumbria Police.
Stokoe’s mother then drove him to the police station where video footage captured his reaction on being arrested.
Walking down the police corridor to what appear to be cells, a female police officer can be heard informing Stokoe he is under arrest on “suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving”.
Footage shows Stokoe putting his hands on his head before letting out a large sigh and tilting his head back against the wall.
He then asks the officer to reaffirm the situation, asking “is she dead?”, with Stokoe looking visibly distressed as Gloria’s death is confirmed.
Superintendent Mulligan and Gloria’s daughters, Julie Francis and Janine Murphy, decided to speak out about what happened to the much loved mother and grandmother to raise awareness of the dangers and potentially fatal consequences of riding illegal e-bikes and scooters.
Northumbria Police provided video footage with the permission and blessing of the victim’s family.