Tackling illegal racing in Milton Keynes
Many genuine car enthusiasts enjoy car meets and will do so safely and legally, but anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving from a minority have fuelled concerns by residents in Milton Keynes, as well as other areas across Thames Valley.
Thames Valley Police are acting to tackle regular car meets and racing as well as working with the council to seek to prevent problems in the future.
Officers in Milton Keynes monitor activity each week, whether it relates to planned events or seeking to gather intelligence about other meets that might take place.
Local officers are supported by Roads Policing who bring additional skills and experience in dealing with traffic offences. On most occasions the police will be responding to reports from the public and inevitably there will always be competing demands on police time, so the Force will continue to focus on the most dangerous and risky behaviour.
Recent activity has seen arrests made, cars seized and tickets issued for a number of offences. These have included issues such as no insurance or MOT and improper number plates, through to more serious offences such as drink or drug driving, careless driving, speeding and dangerous driving. The police have issued S59 warning notices for anti-social behaviour using a motor vehicle and cars have been seized from individuals who continue to offend.
The increased police activity is having an impact, but by the time the police are having to respond it is too late. Much better is to prevent the issues from happening in the first place.
The use of ANPR cameras could help to identify dangerous, repeat offenders to allow the police to focus on the most risky drivers. Discussions are ongoing with Milton Keynes City Council about running well managed licensed events to reduce the impact on residents and isolate dangerous drivers and criminals from genuine enthusiasts.
Residents should continue to report any intelligence or incidents to the police, either online at thamesvalley.police.uk or by calling 101. If a crime is being committed, such as illegal racing, always call 999.
