VIDEO: Street Cleaner Chase: Sussex Officer’s Unusual Tactic Nabs Violent Offender

In a dramatic twist on traditional policing, a Sussex Police officer used a street cleaning vehicle to help catch a violent offender who had fled the scene of an assault in Bognor Regis. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, 26 February 2023, saw Peter Lock, 51, evade initial capture after attacking a woman on the […]

In a dramatic twist on traditional policing, a Sussex Police officer used a street cleaning vehicle to help catch a violent offender who had fled the scene of an assault in Bognor Regis. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, 26 February 2023, saw Peter Lock, 51, evade initial capture after attacking a woman on the High Street.

‘Street’ Tactics Lead to Swift Justice for Bognor Regis Assault

Responding officers were guided by sharp-eyed council workers who saw Lock fleeing on a bicycle. A pursuing officer first gave chase on foot but quickly adapted to the situation, flagging down a nearby street cleaner to close the distance. Thanks to the council worker’s cooperation and the officer’s quick decision-making, Lock was apprehended shortly thereafter.

The 48-year-old female victim was hospitalised with multiple injuries to her hands and face, highlighting the severity of the attack. The rapid response ensured her safety and led to a swift arrest.

Peter Lock, of Linden Road in Bognor Regis, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on 7 May 2025. He pleaded guilty to actual bodily harm (ABH) and was sentenced to 18 months in custody.

Chief Inspector William Keating-Jones praised the ingenuity and public collaboration that led to Lock’s capture. “Pursuing suspects requires rapid decisions and sometimes creative ideas,” he said. “We are grateful to the council worker for their help in capturing this violent criminal.”

The incident underscores the effectiveness of community-police collaboration and the creative thinking sometimes needed to tackle unpredictable situations on the street.

This successful operation sends a clear message: Sussex Police will go the extra mile—literally—to bring offenders to justice.