Man arrested after 50-mile police chase in Sussex

A man was arrested following a 50-mile police chase across Brighton and West Sussex.

At around 4.30pm on Thursday (4th July) police were alerted to a suspected theft of a motorbike which had not previously stopped for police.

Police made contact with the motorcyclist on the A29, who continued driving.

Police, with support from the National Police Air Service (NPAS), continued to pursue the vehicle into West Sussex.

The pursuit route passed through Storrington, Pulborough and Steyning before returning south to Brighton.

The suspect eventually parked in Peace Close, Brighton, and was arrested at around 6.30pm.

A 20-year-old man from Brighton was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, driving without insurance, driving under the influence of drugs and driving without a licence.

He is currently in police custody.

PC Steve Bucksey, Motorcycle Casualty Reduction Officer for the Road Policing Division, said:

“This was a disturbing incident which could have had tragic consequences but thanks to the excellent work of officers from Sussex Police and the NPAS it was resolved safely.

“We believe this was an isolated incident and are not looking for any other suspects at this time.

“It was reported as a suspected theft of a motorcycle. While this is not believed to be true, it is indicative of the action we will take in relation to stolen vehicles.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience while this action is ongoing.”