A man who attempted to evade police after a routine vehicle stop has been sentenced to 21 weeks in prison for possession of a bladed article.

Joseph Ayorinde, 25, of Forest Road, Edmonton, was stopped by officers from the City of London Police Cycle Team on 31 October 2024 after they noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from his vehicle on Warrick Lane.

Attempted Escape and Dangerous Driving

Before officers could carry out a search, Ayorinde sped off, leaving the car door wide open. He was later seen driving dangerously on Carter Lane, overtaking vehicles on the wrong side of the road at high speed.

Within five minutes, officers from the Tactical Firearms Group tracked him down and apprehended him. Upon searching the vehicle, police discovered a lock-knife in his possession.

Officer Statement

Police Constable David Parker from the City of London Police Cycle Team praised the swift response:

“Within five minutes of us making the call that Ayorinde had fled from police, the firearms team were quickly at the scene to apprehend him. It was also due to our extensive camera network in the City, which helped us pinpoint his location, leading to the quick arrest.”

He added:

“Joseph Ayorinde could have posed a risk to the public with his dangerous driving after fleeing from the police. Our proactive work in his arrest and sentencing means there is now one fewer knife on the street and one fewer uninsured driver on the road.”

Sentencing and Additional Charges

Ayorinde was found guilty of:
Possession of a bladed article – 21 weeks in prison
Driving with no insurance – Eight points on his licence
Possession of Class B drugs

Authorities continue to crack down on knife crime and reckless driving, urging the public to report any suspicious activity.