Dangerous Wheelie Biker Jailed After Reckless Police Chase in Brighton
Wheelie Stunt Gone Wrong
Ryan Burtenshaw, 24, was caught on camera pulling wheelies down Old Shoreham Road towards Dyke Road in Brighton. The stunt took place in January as he rode ahead of unmarked police cars from the Specialist Enforcement Unit (SEU).
When officers finally caught up, Burtenshaw ignored their commands to stop and performed another wheelie before speeding off in a 20mph zone. Pedestrians and vehicles narrowly escaped collisions during his dangerous escape.
Chased and Caught
The chase was cut short when Burtenshaw slipped through roadworks, momentarily evading capture. However, police quickly identified him as the owner of the motorcycle and he later admitted to being the reckless rider that day. The roads were wet from recent rain, making his behaviour even more perilous.
Sentenced for Dangerous Driving
Burtenshaw, unemployed and from Meadowview, Brighton, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on October 19. Her Honour Judge Christine Laing KC slammed his driving as “far below the standard of a careful and competent motorist.”
He admitted multiple offences including dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving without a valid licence, and driving without insurance.
Jail, Ban, and Vehicle Confiscation
- 5 months jail
- 1 year and 8 months driving ban
- Motorcycle confiscated under a Deprivation Order
- Must pass an extended retest before riding again
After the sentencing, Chief Inspector Andy Saville said: “This case shows we are determined to catch offenders and keep Brighton and Hove’s roads safe. Burtenshaw risked lives and will now face the consequences.”
