Christopher Forrester jailed for 24 weeks after Cheapside bike theft
A member of the public helped City of London Police arrest the 39-year-old, who breached a Criminal Behaviour Order
Incident → evidence → outcomeChristopher Forrester, 39, was jailed for 24 weeks after stealing a bicycle on Cheapside in the City of London. He was caught on CCTV using an angle grinder to cut through a D-lock at 6:15pm on 16 June 2026. The bike, valued at £1,800, was later returned to its owner.
City of London Police officers were alerted to the theft by passers-by. When they approached Forrester, he picked up the bike and tried to escape. A member of the public intervened to help police detain him. Forrester was arrested at the scene.
Court outcome and breached order
Forrester pleaded guilty to theft and breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. He received a 24-week prison sentence for the theft and a 12-week sentence for breaching the order. Both sentences will run at the same time.
Police Constable Izzy Grace, of the City of London Police, said the case showed that theft would not be tolerated. She credited the public for alerting officers and said the force would continue to use CCTV and patrols to target offenders.
“This sentencing demonstrates that theft will not be tolerated and that offenders will be brought before the courts.”
What happens next
Forrester will serve his 24-week sentence in prison. The City of London Police have not announced further action in this case. Residents are advised to report suspicious activity to the force via their non-emergency contact methods.
Questions this report answers
01How long was Christopher Forrester sentenced to prison?
Forrester received a 24-week prison sentence for theft and a 12-week sentence for breaching his Criminal Behaviour Order. Both sentences will run concurrently, meaning he will serve 24 weeks in total.
02What happened to the stolen bike?
The £1,800 bike was returned to its owner after Forrester’s arrest. City of London Police confirmed the bike was recovered and handed back following the guilty plea at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
03Who helped police arrest Christopher Forrester?
A member of the public assisted City of London Police in detaining Forrester after he attempted to flee with the stolen bike. Officers were already pursuing him when the bystander intervened.
04What did Police Constable Izzy Grace say about the case?
Police Constable Izzy Grace said the sentencing showed theft would not be tolerated. She praised the public for alerting officers and said the force would continue using CCTV and patrols to target offenders and secure convictions.
Support is available without a police report
Find London services, specialist support and the rights set out in the Victims’ Code. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Find victim supportSend a correction or case update
If a hearing, charge or outcome has changed, send the court, case number and source document so we can update the record.
Contact the deskContinue the investigation
PolicingPolice to monitor early release prisoners without extra funding.png?width=1200&auto=webp&quality=75)
PolicingMet Police admit system error misdirected journalist after camera theft
Transport CrimeUK deploys 45 officers to French beaches in small boats crackdown
CourtsSadiq Khan fined £340 for untaxed Nissan Micra he denies owning
Violent CrimeMan arrested over Liverpool Street station head injury attack
CourtsBritish Museum hosted Peter Thiel for private Bayeux Tapestry viewing