A man from Barrow has been convicted after an incident involving an off-road bike in September 2024.
Harrison Ainsbury, 20, of Watergarth, Barrow appeared before Barrow-in-Furness Magistrates' Court yesterday (12 August) after pleading guilty to driving a motor vehicle dangerously, racially aggravated assault and racially aggravated criminal damage.
On 18 September 2024, Ainsbury was riding an off-road type motorcycle when he passed a food delivery driver on a bicycle. When passing he kicked the victim, causing him to hit a curb and fall off the bike.
Ainsbury was arrested for the offence the following day and his phone was seized.
Upon examining the phone, evidence was recovered proving Ainbsury to be the rider of the bike that targeted the victim due to his race.
Ainsbury was sentenced to twelve months in prison, suspended for two years, disqualified from driving for twelve months and required to pass an extended retest before regaining his licence. He was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,000 in compensation.
The court described the incident as a serious, targeted and planned attack, noting Ainsbury's “flagrant disregard” for others and expressing shock at the nature of the offence, the video evidence and racist messages uncovered during the investigation.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Jack Hart said: “This was a completely unprovoked attack on a man who was simply carrying out his job, targeted because of his race.
“There is no place for this type of behaviour in our communities.
“We know the illegal use of off-road bikes has been a long-standing concern for residents across Furness, particularly where they are used to intimidate people, commit offences and put others at risk.
“This conviction demonstrates our commitment to identifying offenders, gathering evidence and taking robust action against those who use bikes to commit crime. We will continue to work through Operation Blackwater to tackle offending and keep our communities safe.
“Operation Blackwater is Furness Police’s response to the anti-social and illegal use of off-road and electric bikes.
“I urge the public to report any illegal or unsafe use of electric bikes, scooters, or motorcycles. Your information helps us take action and keep our communities safe.”
Report issues via 101 or www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
If a crime is in progress always dial 999.