Teen Acid Attacker Strikes Six in Shocking Moped Raids Across London
A 17-year-old teenager has pleaded guilty to a series of terrifying acid attacks during moped robberies across East London in July 2017. Derryck John, from Thornton Heath, admitted 12 charges at Wood Green Crown Court today, Monday 8 January.
Six Victims Sprayed with Corrosive Liquid
John hurled corrosive substances at six men in Newham, Islington, Haringey, and Hackney, hoping to rob their mopeds. The charges include:
- Six counts of throwing a corrosive substance with intent to disable, maim or cause grievous bodily harm
- Four counts of attempted moped robbery
- Two counts of moped robbery
On the night of 13 July 2017, police responded to six separate attacks between 9:30pm and 11:40pm. Victims reported being sprayed in the face by men on mopeds, some losing their vehicles in the process.
Victims Flee But Suffer Lasting Injuries
One victim on Penny Brook Street saw the pillion passenger of a Yamaha scooter raise his arm before feeling the corrosive splash to his face. He sped off in a desperate chase through Leyton and Forest Lane, eventually losing the attackers.
Other victims, aged from 24 to 52, were similarly attacked on mopeds in Hackney Road, St Paul’s Road, Shoreditch High Street, Cazenove Road and Chatsworth Road. Some mopeds were stolen while others escaped empty handed. All victims needed hospital treatment; thankfully, none suffered life-threatening injuries.
Arrest and Investigation
John was arrested hours later on 14 July after a crash involving a suspected stolen moped linked to the attacks. Police cracked the case with CCTV footage and multiple witness statements. Another 15-year-old male arrested was released without further action.
Detective Sergeant James Leeks from Hackney CID said: “Derryck John didn’t think twice about using a life-changing and potentially deadly substance against those resisting robbery. Acid attacks are abhorrent and have no place in our community.”
“Scarring someone for life over a phone or scooter is beyond belief. We’re determined to make London’s streets hostile to criminals who use acid in moped thefts. Anyone fearing such attacks or who has information should contact police or Crimestoppers.”
Derryck John will be sentenced on Friday 9 March 2018.
