"Car wars" set to be shot down
17 Mar 05
Police gain powers to impound boy racers' vehicles
From today, Scottish police have new powers to get boy racers off the country's roads.
Regulations which come into force today under the Antisocial Behaviour Act give police the authority to seize any motor vehicle which is being used to terrorise local communities.
The police now have the power to stop, seize and remove motor vehicles that are or have been used in careless and inconsiderate manner, on or off road, where a constable has good reason for believing that the use is likely to cause alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public.
Drivers face a £105 charge for removal of a seized vehicle plus £12 for each day it is retained. The police can dispose of the vehicle after three months if it has not been claimed or the owner is not identified.
Welcoming the new power, Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry said: "Scottish Ministers are sending out a clear message that people have had enough of antisocial behaviour. Change is already taking place. Councils and police are starting to use some of the new measures. In recent weeks we have seen the first closure orders being granted, and the dispersal power being used successfully in Aberdeen for the first time.
"Another power is added to the toolbox today. Too many communities have had to suffer the problem of cars and motorbikes racing against each other, and away from roads, quad bikes being raced through fields and other public places. Apart from the noise, the danger to bystanders and those taking part is obvious. It's time to end these antisocial 'car wars'."