Police gain new fining powers
From Monday, police in England and Wales will have greater powers to issue “on-the-spot” fines to those committing minor crimes.
The misdemeanours for which fines can be issued include underage drinking, buying alcohol on behalf of under-18s and first time shoplifting.
Fines can be issued to 16 and 17-year-olds as well as adults.
Fines of up to £80 can be issued for first time shoplifting with a value of under £100, underage drinking, and buying alcohol on the behalf of underage drinkers.
Those dropping litter face a potential £50 charge.
Announcing the measures, Home Office Minister, Hazel Blears, said: “Vandalising property, fouling streets with litter, blind drunk teenagers causing trouble or stealing for a buzz – this is antisocial, criminal behaviour and a scourge on society.
“People committing these offences will no longer be let off with a verbal warning. From today, they will face immediate punishment and court action if they refuse to pay.
“These fines will make people think twice and will increase the number of low level offenders we can bring to justice.”
The Government believes that fixed penalty notices free up police time as well as giving an instant punishment to offenders.
Today also saw the launch of a new campaign against those who drop chewing gum in the street, leading to high cleaning bills for local authorities. Launching an awareness raising campaign, Environment Minister Alun Michael, said: “Used gum dropped irresponsibly is an unpleasant nuisance for the public and a major headache for those that have to clean it up.
“Ultimately, it is the public that foots the bill for the clean-up and it is an issue we need to tackle together.”
Releasing research on why people drop gum, Mr Michael said: “The behaviours and attitudes are complex but the simple message is ‘don’t drop your used gum – stick it in a bin’.”
He also warned that “stronger enforcement of fines for gum littering may also need to play a part” – hinting perhaps at the next extension of fine notices.
