Teenager identified from TikTok showing dangerous e-scooter riding
The vehicle has been destroyed
A teenager, who posted videos of himself online, riding an e-scooter dangerously, across Telford, has been identified by police, resulting in his e-scooter being destroyed.
The 13 year-old would often post videos of himself to Tiktok, riding an e-scooter at speed on roads and footpaths, putting himself in danger, as well as other road users.
Officers were able to identify the boy using his social media account and on Sunday (30 August) arrested him, on suspicion of careless driving, driving without a licence and driving without insurance. The e-scooter was also seized by officers.
Due to his age, officers have since referred him to the Youth Offending Team, where he will now have to take part in a course relevant to the offences committed.
PC George Oliver said: "The videos posted online showed a complete disregard and reckless behaviour that put him and members of the public at risk. Following enquiries, officers were able to identify the teenager, seize the e-scooter and take appropriate action.
"We hope this serves as a reminder to parents and young people that e-scooters cannot be ridden legally on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes unless they are part of an authorised rental scheme.
"We will continue to take action against anyone using e-scooters irresponsibly and would encourage anyone who witnesses dangerous riding to report it to us."
Last month (August), officers seized a total of 22 e-scooters across Telford, including this one, as they crackdown on the illegal use of them..
While e-scooters are available to buy, they are currently illegal to use on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes and pedestrian-only areas, unless they are part of an approved government rental scheme. There are currently no legal e-scooter rental schemes in Shropshire.
Anyone found riding a privately-owned e-scooter in public places risks having it seized.