Calls for stricter sentences for speeding ‘boy racers’

Monday 13 July 2020

A politician is pushing for stricter sentences for motorists guilty of travelling 30 miles per hour or more over the speed limit amid reports that some have been altering their number plates to avoid being detected.

St. John Constable Chris Taylor has put forward a proposal to request that the Minister for Home Affairs, Len Norman, introduces stricter sentences, following a “significant increase” in “boy racers driving at extreme speeds”.

Constable Taylor is also proposing that the Honorary Police should be permitted to use mobile speed cameras, as he believes the current methods of policing speeds are “simply not working”.

Pictured: Constable Chris Taylor wants to introduce stricter sentences for motorists driving 30 mph over the speed limit. 

In the report outlining his proposals, Constable Taylor says there is “growing concern” about speeding vehicles on our island roads.

He explained: “When the police do set up speed checks, passing motorists warn on-coming vehicles by flashing their headlights.

“Within minutes of a speed check being set-up, the details are published on social media resulting in wasted Police time and very few prosecutions.”

He believes it is “pointless” reducing speed limits on roads unless the new, lower limits can be policed. 

The bid to clamp down on so-called "boy racers" coincides with the Police's launch of 'Operation Canvas' - a clampdown on speeders and those with dangerous vehicles prompted by some drivers taking advantage of quiet roads during the virus lockdown by driving dangerously and too fast.

Since the operation started, Police have already seized several vehicles in an "unroadworthy" condition.

Particularly in their sights are modified cars, as there have been reports of speeding motorists who have placed special "stealth film" over their number plates to make them unreadable for speed guns and cameras.

One individual was arrested on Thursday night for speeding and failing to stop. Their car was impounded for illegal modifications.

The States Assembly will debate Constable Taylor's proposals on 8 September.