Kalani Forte-Borchers: Teen accused of organising ‘out-of-control’ ride-out before ‘cop assault’ faces court

The teenager accused of organising an allegedly out-of-control bike ride-out that descended on Optus Stadium where a police officer was assaulted has appeared in court. Kalani Forte-Borchers faced Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday charged with organising an out-of-control gathering on December 28. He has also been charged with possessing a controlled weapon in Scarborough the following day. The 19-year-old, whose matter was adjourned for legal advice until next month, was one of several young people charged concerning the incident. Police allege around 60 youths pedalled their way around the Perth CBD on bicycles, electronic bikes and electronic motorcycles “terrorising” pedestrians and weaving in and out of traffic on December 28. Some of the group made their way to Optus Stadium where an officer, who had approached a boy over allegations he had been riding an illegal e-motorcycle on a shared footpath, was then attacked. It is not alleged that Mr Forte-Boarchers had any direct involvement in the alleged attack on the officer. Up to 30 juveniles surrounded the officer as he repeatedly punched and kicked with the disturbing vision posted online by those who had pre-arranged rides. He suffered cuts and bruising to his face and was taken to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital for treatment. A 16-year-old boy has faced court charged with assaulting a police officer. Mr Forte-Borchers has also been charged with possessing a controlled weapon in Scarborough on December 29. He is next expected to appear in court late next month.