West Midlands Police bosses calling for measures to serve justice quicker
The Police and Crime Commissioner wants to destroy seized vehicles twice as quick
Police bosses in the West Midlands are calling for measures to help them serve justice quicker.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for the West Midlands says he wants to be able to destroy seized vehicles twice as quick.
'No regard for public safety'
Currently, West Midlands Police are allowed to destroy vehicles used to commit crime and anti-social behaviour after 14 days.
PCC Simon Foster says he wants to bring that down to just one week: “These vehicles are often being used to commit crime and cause fear in our communities.
“They are fast, nimble, and often modified to exceed legal limits. They are used by individuals who have no regard for public safety, and their presence can be both dangerous and intimidating.”
Modified e-bikes...
PCC Simon Foster told us he is particularly concerned about modified e-bikes.
He said the force has come across some bikes able to reach speeds of over 70 mph, despite the legal limit being 15.5 mph.
Foster said these vehicles are being used to evade police.
'Justice delayed, is justice denied'
“The community expects us to take positive and targeted action to protect them,” PCC Simon Foster added.
“The proposal to crush such vehicles – within 7 days of seizure – is a proportionate and welcome tactic that will deliver swift justice, prevent reoffending, and reduce the burden on police resources.
"Justice delayed is justice denied. These proposals are about protecting people from harm and delivering swift justice," he said.