Sunderland cyclist tackled from pushbike in police chase

Syephen Hendry was arrested on suspicion of riding without due care and attention and failing to stop after the incoident on a busy Sunderland road.

Hendry’s actions led to an unusual pursuit and he was only apprehended after an officer knocked him from his bike.

Sunderland magistrates heard the 46-year-old had been reluctant to be searched - having just bought a quantity of cigarettes from a member of the public.

Prosecutor Laura Lax said: “At 11.50am, on September 30, an officer was on duty on the A1231 Wessington Way - going towards Queen Alexandra Bridge - when he saw Hendry riding a pedal cycle on the pavement in the opposite direction.

“He turned around and asked him to stop, telling him he wanted to search him in relation to another matter that isn’t before the court today.

“The officer explains that he is being detained for that search. He replied ‘no’ and started cycling off.”

She added: “He was asked to stop but failed to do so. The officer has had no choice but to pursue Hendry.

“He cycled off over the road and the officer tackled him off the bike.”

Hendry, of Brady Street, Pallion, admitted failing to stop and obstructing a police officer.

The charge of cycling without due care and attention was withdrawn by the prosecution.

Ian Jordan, defending, said: “It’s a matter that arises out of very little but soon becomes quite an incident.

“The reason he didn’t want to be searched was because he hadn’t done anything wrong which would have warranted being searched.

“He was compliant with the officer, provided all his details and as he was being told the authority of the search, he refused and made off.

“He was arrested and force was used during the arrest.”

Mr Jordan said Hendry had been carrying a number of packets of cigarettes which he had bought from a member of the public for £30, when he was stopped.

Magistrates fined Hendry £80, with £85 costs and £30 surcharge.

His breach of a suspended sentence will be reported to the crown court.