Communities across Gedling borough blighted by off-road biking in public parks, and intimidating street racing are set to benefit from new police powers to crack down on anti-social behaviour.
Perpetrators of anti-social driving face having their cars, e-scooters or off-road bikes seized and destroyed after 48 hours under stronger powers proposed today by the government.
Currently police must wait 14 days before being able to dispose of a vehicle, making it easier for offenders to reclaim them and repeat offending.
The measure to fast-track the disposal of vehicles comes alongside additional proposals to give police stronger powers to seize any vehicles involved in anti-social behaviour, with officers no longer required to issue a warning before seizing them.
The changes are also expected to have a wider impact on tackling more serious crime with e-scooters and e-bikes often used to facilitate drug dealing, organised crime and serious violence.
Minister for Crime and Policing, Dame Diana Johnson said: “Anti-social and reckless driving brings misery to communities across the country, from dangerous street racing to off-road bikes tearing through local parks.
“By enabling police to seize and dispose of these vehicles within just 48 hours, we’re giving our officers the tools they need to deliver immediate results and providing communities the swift justice they deserve.
“These new powers send a clear message that anti-social behaviour, whatever form it takes, will not be tolerated in our local communities.”
AA president, Edmund King praised the decision to hand police new powers.
He said: “Illegal car meets and street racing are not just anti-social, but also present road safety problems which have resulted in needless injuries and fatalities.
“This is a positive step that should make people think again before joining illegal car cruises.”
