Four suspected thieves arrested after trying to outrun officers

Four people suspected of theft offences have been arrested after trying to run away from a team of police officers and a police dog.

Shortly after 11pm last night (Wednesday 22 April), officers on patrol came across a car that was heading in the direction of Mow Cop that was potentially linked to theft offences. The driver failed to stop for officers, resulting in a pursuit.

When the car came to a stop on Mow Lane, Mow Cop, the driver reversed into one of our armed response vehicles (ARV), causing extensive damage.

No one inside the ARV was injured.

Those inside the suspect’s car ran off on foot, but didn’t get far with our police dog, officers and aerial support from the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

We then found out the car was uninsured. It had drug paraphernalia inside and tools which could be used to carry out thefts.

Four people from Stoke-on-Trent have been arrested:

• A 16-year-old boy on suspicion of going equipped for burglary, dangerous driving, drug driving and possession of cannabis
• Another 16-year-old boy on suspicion of going equipped for theft and dangerous driving
• An 18-year-old man on suspicion of going equipped for burglary and dangerous driving
• An 18-year-old man on suspicion of going equipped for the taking of a motor vehicle without consent

They remain in custody today (Thursday 23 April).