A farmer’s “citizen’s arrest” of two suspected trespassers in Lancashire, England, has led to his own arrest — and sparked an intense online debate about the limits of self-defense and land protection.
Neil Greenwood, 52, from Trawden, detained two men — ages 17 and 20 — who he claimed had trespassed on his land in the United Kingdom by riding an electric bike across it the day prior. According to Lancashire Police, Greenwood’s actions included physically restraining the men, tying their hands and feet, and transporting them on his quad bike to the local police station in Colne.
The incident began when Greenwood told authorities he found the pair attempting to retrieve an electric bike they had left behind after discovering that the gate they used to enter the field had been locked.
Greenwood is believed to have tackled the men, bound them, and then drove them four miles on his quad bike to the police station. News footage captured the sight of the two young men tied across the front and back of the farmer’s vehicle as he navigated local roads.
Upon arrival at the police station, Lancashire Police officers found the men tied but not securely strapped to the quad bike, which led to their questioning of Greenwood, not the two alleged trespassers.
Leland Hornby, one of the young men involved, described the harrowing journey to The Sun newspaper, saying he was “scared” during the drive, and he and his friend had nearly fallen off the quad bike. Hornby’s mother expressed distress over the incident, wondering why the farmer had not simply called the police instead of taking matters into his own hands.
Greenwood was ultimately arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment and assault but was released on bail as the investigation continues.
The episode has drawn both support and criticism online. Some social media users hailed Greenwood as a “hero,” praising his quick actions in securing his property. Reddit users joined the conversation, with one, u/Popular-Carrot34, admiring Greenwood’s ability to restrain two young men, adding that it was “impressive he’s taken them to the police rather than dishing out his own punishment.” Another Reddit user speculated that the pair “certainly didn’t look like your average hiker/rambler,” hinting at potential mischief.
