Street Cleaner Turned Police Pursuit Vehicle in Dramatic Bognor Regis Arrest
In a remarkable act of quick thinking, a Sussex Police officer used a street cleaning vehicle to pursue and detain a violent offender following an assault in Bognor Regis.
The incident took place on Sunday, 26 February 2023, when Peter Lock, 51, fled on a bicycle after attacking a woman on High Street. Witnesses, including vigilant council workers, directed officers to the fleeing suspect.
One responding officer initially pursued Lock on foot, but quickly flagged down a passing street cleaner to close the gap. The unconventional move proved successful—Lock was caught and arrested soon after.
Assault Victim Hospitalised with Serious Injuries
The 48-year-old woman sustained significant injuries to her face and hands and was taken to hospital for treatment. Her attacker, Peter Lock, of Linden Road, was charged with actual bodily harm (ABH).
Appearing at Lewes Crown Court on 7 May 2025, Lock pleaded guilty and received an 18-month custodial sentence.
Police Praise Ingenuity and Public Support
Chief Inspector William Keating-Jones commended both the officer’s creativity and the cooperation of local workers:
“Pursuing suspects requires rapid decisions and sometimes creative ideas. We are grateful to the council worker for their help in capturing this violent criminal.”
The arrest has been hailed as a prime example of effective community-police collaboration, reinforcing how partnerships and resourcefulness can lead to swift justice.
Community Engagement in Action
This case illustrates Sussex Police’s commitment to using all available resources, including support from the public, to tackle crime in real time. Lock’s arrest adds to a growing list of successful community-assisted operations.
