More e-scooters seized during hotspot patrols in Stevenage

Two more e-scooters have been seized in Stevenage as part of an operation to target nuisance and anti-social behaviour connected with these motorised vehicles.

Operation Scoot has been running since the beginning of the summer holidays, following constant complaints from members of the public about the illegal use of these vehicles.

Led by PC Jack Pickering, the operation has now been incorporated into ‘Hot Spot’ patrols with the aim of increasing the number of scooters seized. PC Pickering has also devised a new system to make it easier for officers to identify and remove these vehicles from the streets.

The latest scooters were seized after Jack, who was out on patrol with his father PC Chris Pickering, spotted them being used illegally by two men on Grace Way.

Neither rider had insurance for the scooters, so they have been reported for the offence and the scooters have been seized.

PC Jack Pickering said: “We constantly receive complaints about the use of e-scooters in the town, particularly around anti-social and dangerous use in the town centre. The situation remains, that it is illegal to use e-scooters in Stevenage at this time, unless you are using them on private land with the landowner’s permission.

“We know that they are popular, but please do not buy one as a gift this Christmas, as unless you have somewhere to ride it legally, it may end up joining the many others we have seized.

“The penalties for riding e-scooters illegally include seizing the vehicle and reporting the rider for driving offences. This can lead to significant penalty points and a fine. If you are a parent letting your child ride one in public, you will be the one found responsible and in turn this could affect your own driving licence.”

Neighbourhood Sergeant Matt Fathers said: “We are already seeing some great results following this targeted operation, which is in addition to normal daily business. I hope local residents and visitors to the town centre are reassured that we are taking this problem seriously and I hope it will act as a deterrent to those who ride e-scooters illegally.”

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