Avon and Somerset fine dodgers targeted (From Bridgwater Mercury)

Avon and Somerset fine dodgers targeted

1:00pm Sunday 7th February 2010

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FINE dodgers in Avon and Somerset are set to get their comeuppance.

Police and court enforcement officers are going to blitz offenders’ homes to chase up payments.

Under Operation Crack Down, approved enforcement agencies will be issued with warrants to confiscate property.

People who refuse to co-operate face arrest and court time will be set aside to deal specifically with those not coughing up.

David Gentry, Her Majesty’s Courts Service area director, said: “Our message to fine dodgers is clear – if you’ve been fined, we’ll find you.

“The courts will do everything within their powers to trace those who don’t pay.

“Money can be taken from an offender’s earnings or from benefits if they are unemployed.

“Warrants can be issued instructing court employed agents to seize and sell goods belonging to the offender.

“Ultimately an offender can be imprisoned for non-payment of their fine.”

Taunton-based Insp Sam Williams said the police worked closely with their partners to hunt down and bring to justice those who attempt to evade paying their fines.

Insp Williams added: “The court process and the issuing of appropriate sanctions is a fundamental part of the criminal justice process.

“It also provides reassurance and satisfaction to the victims of crime and communities.”

In the 12 months to September 2009, 1,080 Attachment of Earnings Order and 11,198 Deduction from Benefits Orders were issued across Avon and Somerset.

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