Motorbike Rider Caught After Hit-and-Run Denial
Police were called to South Farm Road around 11pm on February 9 following a collision involving a Mercedes and a Honda CBR 125 motorbike. The rider and pillion passenger fled the scene without handing over any details.
Driver Denies Riding Despite Injuries and Witnesses
Officers tracked down George Argent, 18, the registered keeper of the bike, at his Tower Road, Lancing home. He denied being the rider despite having visible injuries and multiple witnesses identifying him at the scene and in an identity parade. Argent stuck to his story even when given the chance to come clean.
Phone Evidence Exposes His Lies
An examination of Argent’s phone uncovered messages where he confessed to several people that he was indeed the rider involved in the crash.
Sentenced to Suspended Jail and Driving Ban
- Charged with perverting the course of justice, driving without due care, driving without a valid license, and failing to stop after a collision
- Admitted all charges at Lewes Crown Court on November 8
- Received a 22-week suspended sentence
- Ordered to complete 120 hours unpaid work and 15 rehabilitation sessions
- Rejected from driving for one year
PC Thomas Van Der Wee said: “Argent went to great lengths to try to avoid being prosecuted for leaving the scene of the collision. It meant we had to check his claims, organise an identity parade, and analyse his mobile phones.”
“This case shows we are determined to catch anti-social motorcycle riders. Those who lie to police and courts will be caught and prosecuted.”
