Three jailed after man fell from van during attempted bike theft

Three men have today, Friday 28 February, been jailed after a man suffered serious life-changing injuries after falling from the rear of a van during an attempted theft in Southport.

Police were contacted at 8.25pm on Friday 19 July last year after the 20-year-old man fell from the rear of the moving white Peugeot Boxer van as he attempted to intervene in a suspected motorbike theft on The Promenade/Leyland Road.

The man, who is now 21, suffered head and chest injuries during the incident. He was taken to hospital where he still continues to receive treatment.

Mason McLean, 20, of Gilbert Street, Liverpool city centre, was charged with conspiracy to steal a motor vehicle and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He was jailed for six years and eight months and disqualified from driving for two years.

Dylan Tollitt, 24, of Grafton Street, Toxteth, was charged with conspiracy to steal a motor vehicle and an unconnected charge of possession with intent to supply drugs. He was jailed for a total of four years and four months.

Leroy Agatha, 23, of no fixed abode, was charged with conspiracy to steal a motor vehicle. He was jailed for three years.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Suffield said: “This was a shocking incident which has left a young man with life changing injuries.

“The three defendants stole a motorbike and attempted to load it into the van but were unable to close the rear doors.

“The victim climbed aboard the van in attempt to stop them but it was driven away in such a manner that it caused him to fall from the rear of the van resulting in catastrophic injuries.

“The events of that day have had a devastating impact on that man, who still continues to recover from his injuries, and his family.

“Today the three men are behind bars where they belong and I hope that this result will allow the victim to move on from that day and continue with his recovery.”

A victim personal statement from the victim’s family, which was read to the court, said:  “This attack has left my son unable to engage with the world as he once did. His one bright and hopeful demeanour has been replaced by sadness, confusion and frustration.

“It is heart-breaking to witness his struggle and know he cannot fully comprehend why this happened to him. Our family is overwhelmed with grief, anger and a sense of helplessness.

“We are a very close knit family and had so many plans made already. Time has stood still for us all.

“No sentence can undo the damage caused, but we trust that justice will  be served to prevent others from enduring such pain.”