A 16-year-old boy described by a judge as “totally out of control” has been sentenced to two years and four months in a youth detention centre after a violent e-bike robbery at knifepoint in Cherry Hinton Rec, Cambridge.
The incident occurred at 6:25 PM on April 2, when the boy and a 16-year-old accomplice approached a 15-year-old riding an e-bike. The main offender brandished a large kitchen knife, attempted to stab the victim, and forcibly tried to steal the bike.
The victim wrestled the attacker, suffered minor injuries to his face, abdomen, and hands, and managed to flee with the knife, discarding it in a bush.
A bystander captured footage of the attack, leading to the arrest of both teenagers the next day.
Court Sentencing and Reaction
At Cambridge Crown Court on May 21, the primary offender pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a knife in a public place. Judge Andrew Hurst remarked:
“You were wholly reckless with a highly dangerous weapon… the only way to ensure you might ‘see sense’ is a period in custody.”
The second teen, from Little Shelford, received a two-year youth rehabilitation order, a 6-month curfew, and 10 reparation sessions.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary stated:
“This case is another stark reminder of the dangers of knife crime. We will continue to pursue those who carry weapons and bring them to justice.”
The e-bike has since been recovered. Community groups are calling for increased patrols and youth intervention services in the area.
