Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

ON Friday, 28 February 2025, 3 males were jailed for their parts in an attempted theft, in Southport, back in July 2024

The Court was told that during the attempted theft a male suffering serious life changing injuries after falling from the rear of a van. Merseyside Police explained that:- "We were contacted at:- 8.25pm, on:- Friday, 19 July 2024, 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."

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 His 1 bright and hopeful demeanour has been replaced by sadness, confusion and frustration.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."

As a result, 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 has now been jailed for 6 years and 8 months and disqualified from driving for 2 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 sSign In upply drugs. He has been jailed for a total of 4 years and 4 months. And, Leroy Agatha, 23, of no fixed abode, was charged with conspiracy to steal a motor vehicle. He has now been jailed for 3 years.