A baby-faced yob who got stoned and led police on a dangerous scooter chase on his 18th birthday walked free from court today.
Leon Lowe, 18, was already out on bail for a separate offence of assault when the events unfolded in Birkenhead last June.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that Lowe, formerly of Union Street, Tranmere, had been "repeatedly in trouble" since 2019, with matters ranging from harassment to drugs offences.
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He appeared in court for sentencing after being produced from jail, where he had just finished serving a custodial sentence - his second - for assault.
Also present in court to witness proceedings was Lowe's stepdad.
Mark Phillips, prosecuting, said Lowe came to police's attention on June 13 last year when he went through a red traffic light on a black Znen 125cc bike.
Lowe reached 40mph in a 30mph zone and was "constantly looking over his shoulder" at police rather than watching the road.
Mr Phillips said: "There was a half-mile police chase which ended in Birkenhead Park, where he abandoned the bike and tried to escape."
When police caught up with him, Lowe tested positive for cannabis at the roadside but when taken into custody he refused to give a blood sample.
When interviewed by police, Lowe said he paid £300 for the bike with his birthday money.
He later admitted dangerous driving, driving without a licence and insurance, failing to provide a specimen of blood and possessing cannabis.
John Weate, defending, said Lowe was "a vulnerable young boy who stands on the threshold of change, with the encouragement and support of his family."
He said the teenager was "excited" about the package that had been put together in a bid to stop him re-offending and coming before the courts again.
This included accommodation being found for him, and resuming his college studies.
Judge David Swinnerton told Lowe: "You are still young, still immature.
"We take dangerous driving seriously because you can kill people. Your actions have consequences, not just for you but for other people."
The judge added: "A lot needs to happen to ensure you are not in a revolving door of being constantly in and out of prison.
"I'm going to give you the chance to improve your life. If you throw away that chance, you will be quickly back in prison, and that'll be your fault.
"I hope you take this chance. It will be better for you and society if you do."
He sentenced Lowe to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months. He was also given a curfew and will be tagged.
