Ex-Police Officer’s Controversial Incident with E-Bike Riders
A former police officer has revealed the turmoil he faced after a controversial encounter with two e-bike riders, leading to his resignation from Sussex Police. Tim Bradshaw, an ex-PC, claims he was left with no choice but to step down after a violent clash that left both riders injured.
The incident occurred on November 3, 2022, in Bognor Regis, West Sussex, when Bradshaw’s police car collided with Mason McGarry and Dominic Mizzi, who were riding an e-bike. McGarry, then 17, sustained a broken tibia that required surgical intervention. The courtroom proceedings at Portsmouth Crown Court revealed that McGarry had an extensive criminal record, boasting over 40 convictions for various offenses including robbery, theft, and dangerous driving.
In a recent encounter following the incident, Bradshaw had to confront McGarry for the first time since that fateful day. He described the moment, saying, “He looked at me all cocky and arrogant, announcing to everyone that I’d knocked him down but that he had taken my job.” The situation escalated when McGarry allegedly threatened Bradshaw’s family and even blew cannabis smoke in his face, prompting Bradshaw to retort, “Go away Mason and take your cannabis with you.” The confrontation took a tense turn when McGarry lunged at him, accompanied by Mizzi, who was wearing a balaclava and allegedly threatening another bus driver.
Mizzi, 22, also has a history of criminal activity, including assaults on emergency workers. Bradshaw explained that he attempted to follow the e-bike after it sped past his car on the pavement, suggesting the riders were trying to provoke him. He claimed that during the chase, the e-bike swerved in front of him, prompting him to make what he termed “tactical contact” with the vehicle at a speed of approximately 30 mph. Bradshaw maintained that the impact was merely a “nudge” from his bumper and blamed Mizzi for the incident, stating it was due to his “own stupid fault.”
Despite facing serious charges, Bradshaw was acquitted of causing serious injury by dangerous driving last month. He emphasized that the contact was minimal and highlighted that his police car bore no visible damage. In reflecting on the case, he expressed concern that police officers may become hesitant to take decisive action during dangerous situations due to fear of repercussions. “Officers are always looking over their shoulders, terrified of doing or saying the wrong thing,” he lamented, adding that this creates a reluctance to act promptly and assertively.
The jury also found him not guilty of an alternative charge of causing serious injury by driving without due care and attention. The judge commended Bradshaw for his dedication to public service. Andy Newman, Deputy Chair of Sussex Police Federation, expressed support for Bradshaw, stating, “Today a jury has taken less than 20 minutes to come to a not guilty verdict and clear the name of retired PC Tim Bradshaw.” He further noted the split-second decisions that police officers must make to uphold the law, hoping that police organizations will learn from this case and continue to support their officers in their responsibilities to protect the community.
Bradshaw expressed gratitude towards his legal team, Mark Aldred and MGR solicitors, along with the Sussex Police Federation and his family, for their unwavering support throughout the challenging two-year legal process leading up to the trial.
