Six anti-social drivers cautioned in Dover and Deal after wheel spinning, engine revving and blocking roundabouts
16:13, 18 September 2021
updated: 11:10, 21 September 2021
Police are cracking down on anti-social motorists and have handed out multiple warnings to nuisance drivers.
Six people in Dover and Deal have been warned they risk having their cars seized if they continue to drive anti-socially.
It comes after local concerns about nuisance behaviour involving cars.
As a result, officers from Dover Community Policing Team (CPT) carried out a number of patrols in the district on Friday, September 10 and Saturday, September 11.
On Friday they attended Lidl supermarket car park in Whitfield and spoke to a number of vehicle owners who had been using the area for car meets.
One vehicle was seen by officers to swerve across the road and wheel spin at traffic lights resulting in the driver being reported for careless driving and given a Section 59. A second motorist was also given a Section 59 warning for their driving.
Under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act, if a vehicle is used in a manner that is careless, inconsiderate or is driving off-road and likely to cause distress, the driver or motorcyclist can receive a warning. If the person continues to offend within the following 12 months, officers can seize their vehicle.
'Engine revving, wheel spinning and racing other vehicles has been reported...'
On Saturday a further four notices were dished out to drivers following inquiries about nuisance driving on the August bank holiday around the Sandwich bypass and Betteshanger Road.
It follows reports on driver was driving without care and attention while his passenger wasn't wearing a seatbelt.
Two drivers were also reported for obstructing the highway by parking across the entrance to the roundabout so others could drift around it.
Police have said work is continuing with partner agencies and local car enthusiast groups to identify other suspected offenders so they can be spoken to by police.
Sergeant Simon Drew of Dover CPT added: "We understand how detrimental it can be for a community if cars are regularly driven in an irresponsible way, late into the evening.
"Engine revving, wheel spinning and racing other vehicles has been reported in recent weeks and we will take action against those responsible if they are seen to do it repeatedly. Everyone who drives a vehicle has a responsibility to keep the roads safe and play their part in promoting responsible driving.
"We have issued a number of warnings to drivers and if they are found to continue their behaviour, they will have their vehicle seized.
"Our patrols will continue across the district but if residents become aware of any ongoing incidents, they are urged to report it to Kent Police on 101, or via our website, or call 999 if a crime is in progress."
