On-the-spot fines now Scotland-wide

Strathclyde introduction from today completes roll-out across Scottish police forces

News, 17 September 2007

The on-the-spot fines scheme is now in operation across all of Scotland's police forces after being introduced in the Strathclyde Police area from today.

Under the scheme, eight minor statutory offences such as vandalism, drinking alcohol in public and urinating or defecating to the annoyance of others, and two common law offences - breach of the peace and malicious mischief - can attract a £40 fixed penalty notice which will avoid the offender being prosecuted in court or acquiring a criminal record. If the fine is not paid within 28 days, it rises to £60.

The scheme was initially piloted in Tayside over a 12 month period. Experience showed that 65% of offenders paid up within the 28 days and about 80% eventually paid the amount levied. Police administration time was reduced from 45 minutes per case to between 10 and 15 minutes, plus further savings from being cited to attend court. The total time saved in the 12 months has been estimated at 1,300 hours.

Penalty notices can be challenged in the district court. If a fine is paid, the offender's details are held on file for two years. If three offences are committed within six months, the offender will be reported to the procurator fiscal.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said that future development of fixed penalty notices would considered as part of the broader antisocial behaviour strategy review.

"We are also committed to a specific review of FPN use nationally, including the offences for which they can be imposed and the level of the penalty, after 12 months of all forces adopting them."