Teenager banned from driving for 12 months after illegally riding motorcycle in Hertford
The teenager cannot be named because of his age
A 16-year-old boy has been disqualified from driving for a further 12 months after being found guilty of a series of offences involving an illegally ridden Sur-Ron bike in Hertford town centre.
The teenager, who cannot be named because of his age, appeared at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, October 1, where he was convicted of five offences.
They were: driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, driving a mechanically propelled vehicle without due care and attention, driving while disqualified.
The offences relate to the teenager riding his Sur-Ron illegally through Hertford town centre during a busy period.
He had previously pleaded not guilty to all five offences at a hearing at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court on July 2.
Following the trial, he was found guilty on all counts and given a further 12-month driving disqualification, a nine-month youth offending referral order and a fine.
The disqualification applies to any propelled motor vehicle, including Sur-Ron bikes.
Sur-Ron electric bikes have become increasingly popular, but depending on their specification and how they are used, they can be subject to road traffic laws and require appropriate registration, insurance and licensing.
PC Greg Jones, from the Hertford Neighbourhood Policing Team, said illegal off-road bikes such as Sur-Rons pose a “significant risk” to pedestrians, other road users and riders.
He said the result should reassure residents that police will pursue people who commit offences and put others at risk.
“Regardless of age, anyone who believes they can ignore the law and endanger the public can expect to face the consequences of their actions,” PC Jones said.
Police said they continue to receive reports of Sur-Rons and similar bikes being used illegally and anti-socially, particularly in Hertford town centre and around the Bircherley Green area.
PC Jones added that the behaviour “causes concern within our communities” and can put pedestrians, motorists and riders at unnecessary risk.