Police investigate disorder by teens on bikes in Newcastle City Centre
The events, organised by young people, have seen up to 300 attendees on pedal cycles gather in the city centre on Saturday, March 14, March 21, and March 28.
Northumbria police say they wont tolerate so called "ride alongs" organised by kids across Newcastle - causing anti-social behaviour in the city.
The events, organised by young people, have seen up to 300 attendees on pedal cycles gather in the city centre on Saturday, March 14, March 21, and March 28.
In recent weeks, the “ride-a-longs” have been advertised on social media including on TikTok, leading to a series of concerned calls to police.
Pockets of anti-social behaviour reported by the public and businesses have saw riders causing widespread disruption – such as travelling on the wrong side of the road, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic measures.
A handful have also crowded around parked vehicles and caused damage to them, with others shouting at passers-by, setting fire to clothing and throwing missiles.
An investigation has been underway with partners to identify those involved in criminality, with joint patrol activity increased in hotspot areas and enforcement stepped-up.
This has led to four young people – aged between 11 and 15 – being arrested on suspicion of conspiring to intentionally or recklessly cause a public nuisance. They have since been released on police bail with conditions, as enquiries continue.
As part of the response, officers have also seized six bicycles from key participants using anti-social behaviour powers and issued 20 dispersal notices.
A thorough trawl of CCTV footage has led to 47 young people being identified and visited at home by police in a bid to disrupt their unsafe behaviour.
Letters have also been sent home to parents and carers of young people who live in the wider region to advise them of the dangers of such events.
Chief Inspector Rob Bosson, of Northumbria Police, said: “We’re working hard with our partners to reduce the impact of recent disorder at these events, and ultimately keep young people and the wider public safe.
“Our approach very much focuses on preventing anti-social behaviour and minimising any safety concerns – but we will take firm action where individuals continue to knowingly put others at risk.
“We appreciate that most young people are just out to have fun with their friends, but this could easily result in someone getting seriously hurt.”
Chief Inspector Bosson added: “Of course we want young people to enjoy cycling and exercising in their city – but not at the expense of their safety or others.
“We’ll continue working closely with partners agencies, education settings and families to educate young people around the dangers of group riding and keep them safe.
“However, please know that we will take robust action when it’s needed and appropriate, which could leave your child facing criminal consequences for their actions.”
Officers continue to urge parents and carers to ask their children not to attend any future events – and to check in with them around where they’re headed, and who with, before they get mixed up in any wrongdoing.
Anyone involved faces action being taken against them, including the seizure of pedal cycles and bikes that have been illegally modified or used in an anti-social manner.
Criminal action could see young people arrested and risk having a criminal record or a referral to Youth Justice Services.