Policeman Cleared After E-Bike Crash Injures Rider and Passenger

Tim Bradshaw, a former officer, was found not guilty. A jury agreed he was right to stop two men. He knocked them off their electric motorbike to prevent possible harm.

The jury cleared Tim Bradshaw of wrongdoing after a trial. He was accused of causing serious injury and charged with dangerous driving. They also cleared him of careless driving. Judge David Melville KC spoke to the jury, stressing the case’s importance for all police.

In 2022, Bradshaw hit an e-bike’s back wheel with his Ford Focus police car. The crash happened in Bognor Regis, causing Mason McGarry and Dominic Mizzi to fall.

McGarry, age 17 then, broke his tibia and needed surgery. He said Bradshaw gave no warning at all. McGarry had over 40 past convictions, including robbery and dangerous driving.

Mizzi, age 22 then, also had past convictions, including assault on emergency workers.

Bradshaw said his training justified his actions and that superiors allowed such force before. He wanted to end the chase quickly, fearing risks would increase otherwise. Bradshaw’s car had no damage, showing the contact was minimal in force.

E-bikes were a problem in the area, Bradshaw said. Riders sometimes escaped through alleys. Officers often could not stop these e-bikes.

Mizzi had an e-bike accident before this one. Another young man recently died nearby in a crash.

Andy Newman read a statement for Bradshaw, and the jury quickly cleared Bradshaw’s name.

The case shows hard choices police officers must make to uphold the law. Bradshaw hopes leaders show boldness like the jury and protect communities.

Officers like Tim work daily for public safety. He thanked his lawyers, federation, and his family, who supported him strongly during the two years.

Sussex Police will review Bradshaw’s case again and consider disciplinary actions to take.

Police follow national driving standards. Superintendent Rachel Glenton spoke about road safety and the need for very high driving standards. She appreciated the jury’s careful consideration.

Bradshaw retired in June 2023 from his police duties and has not commented on his future plans.