Crackdown on Car Cruising in Hinckley Yields Positive Results
In a decisive move to address the issue of illegal car cruising, authorities in Hinckley have seen significant success in their crackdown on dangerous driving behavior. Led by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire and Rutland, Rupert Matthews, the initiative has been instrumental in reducing incidents in the area.
Matthews highlighted that Hinckley was one of the hotspots where numerous complaints had been made about the disruptive and dangerous practice of car cruising. In response, law enforcement intensified efforts, using a combination of warning letters, legal notices, vehicle seizures, and court summonses.
In Hinckley, these measures have had a remarkable impact, with reported issues of car cruising coming to a halt. “Car cruising is not only illegal but extremely dangerous,” said Matthews. “I am pleased to see that the extra enforcement is having an effect here in Hinckley, and we are determined to maintain this progress.”
Key to this success has been the implementation of Section 59 notices, which serve as a serious deterrent to repeat offenders. Initially, offending drivers receive a verbal or written warning, but if they are caught again within a 12-month period, their vehicle can be seized. In more severe cases, if costs associated with recovering the vehicle are not covered, it may be crushed.
Matthews emphasized that authorities are using state-of-the-art technology to identify and prosecute dangerous drivers, warning that those who continue to ignore the rules will face the full extent of the law.
The crackdown in Hinckley is part of a broader countywide initiative, which has also seen success in other areas like Market Harborough and Charnwood. However, Hinckley’s complete cessation of car cruising incidents is seen as a significant victory in the fight against dangerous driving.
The Police and Crime Commissioner praised the efforts of local officers and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring Hinckley remains free from the dangers posed by illegal car cruising. As Matthews stated, “We will not be resting on our laurels. Drivers in Hinckley should be aware that we are committed to keeping the roads safe and will continue to take strong action.”