Public Servant Lifestyle

Northumbria Police officers are getting tough with off road drivers, warning there is no public land where their vehicles can be used.

To reinforce the message, officers from Gateshead Area Command are considering stepping up their approach to offenders by arresting people for public order offences as well as for traffic and anti-social behaviour offences.

The move forms part of Chief Constable Mike Craik's pledge of total policing to tackle crime and disorder at all levels, supported by Northumbria Police Authority.

Community Inspector Kevin Rigg of East Gateshead and Felling Community Police Team, said: "We've arrested offenders in the past for public nuisance and have been successful in getting ASBOs against them.

Increase

"However, during the recent warm weather there was an increase in people driving off-road and we are now considering taking a more robust approach for public order, traffic and anti-social behaviour offences.

"We've always taken positive action against persistent offenders but feel if they have to account for their actions in front of a magistrates court this will deliver a stronger message.

"In the future we are likely to issue warnings in relation to seizing vehicles* as well as prosecuting for related offences. Whole communities have been affected by the actions of these people and our response is in keeping with concerns expressed to us."

PC Fraser Wilson, who works in the Felling area of the Northumbria Police district, said: "These riders are anti-social, dangerous and wholly irresponsible. Recently over one weekend we stopped and officially warned ten offenders in the Leam Lane and Felling areas.

"They were of all ages and one had previously been warned so we were able to seize his motorbike. We need to get the message across that there is no public land in Gateshead where off-road vehicles are allowed."

Tyneside, Wearside and Northumberland are amongst the safest places in the country to live. Crime fell by 7% last year and has dropped 37% since the early 90s.

*Vehicles can be seized following a previous warning.

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