E-scooter rider who hit woman while evading police in Bexhill jailed

Paul Satchell had been warned to stop by two officers who spotted him on the scooter in Watermill Lane, Bexhill, just before noon on December 1, 2020.

Satchell ignored them, turned away from police and rode off.

The 58-year-old rode at speed while looking behind him at the officers.

The scooter used by Satchell (Image: Sussex Police)

But he slammed into Myra Wood, 79, who was crossing the road.

She was knocked over and suffered “extensive injuries” including a fractured eye socket.

Satchell was also thrown off his scooter but was uninjured.

The two police officers arrested Satchell and gave first aid to Mrs Wood.

Satchell, of no fixed address, was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

At Lewes Crown Court on September 9 this year, he was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

He was also disqualified from driving for a further three years and eight months.

The moment he knocked the woman over (Image: Sussex Police)

Myra Wood, who was 77 at the time, agreed for the footage to be shared online to warn people about the dangers e-scooters can post to others.

E-scooters are illegal to ride on pavements and roads.

Speaking after the case, collision unit investigator Chris McGuckin said: “This was a particularly unusual case in as much as it was an e-scooter that was involved.

"We could only charge Satchell if it was established that the e-scooter was a ‘vehicle’ within the meaning of the Road Traffic Act.

“Satchell at first pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the charge and the matter was sent to the Crown Court for trial.

Paul Satchell (Image: Sussex Police)

“But he failed to attend court on several occasions. Warrants were issued for his arrest. When he was arrested and appeared in court, the evidence was so strong that he had no choice but to change his plea to guilty.

“We are pleased that we could at last get justice for Mrs Wood with the 16-month prison sentence.

“The case shows that all road users have an obligation to pay attention and be aware of others on the road to prevent causing serious harm.

“It also demonstrates the harm that can be caused by e-scooters, which are still illegal to use in public, outside of a trial area.”