Repeated complaints about antisocial vehicle use have sparked a police operation.
Officers from Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team have continued to receive complaints about e-scooter use and the antisocial use of vehicles in the area.
Following escalating concerns raised regarding the issues, Copeland NPT has launched Operation Endorse.
The operation aims to target illegal and antisocial use of off-road vehicles and e-scooters in public places and on public roads targeting the key areas:
- Persistent offenders due to a poor standard of driving, lack of documents, persistent illegal off-road use of vehicles or illegal use of e-scooters.
- Young drivers/riders who cause antisocial driving (ASB)
Sergeant Lindsay Stuart from Copelands Neighbourhood policing team said: “This operation aims to identify, target and deal with those offending and acting antisocially with motor vehicles in Copeland.
“Individuals are putting themselves and others at risk of serious harm or death due to their manner of driving.”
Copeland is an area in which the government are running trials of rental e-scooters through a rental operator.
Sergeant Stuart added “We often get asked on the laws around e-scooters, they fall within the same laws as motor vehicles and therefore require a driving licence, insurance and to be taxed.
“Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on the road and in public spaces as its not currently possible to get the appropriate insurance.
“You can use rental scooters within the trial area on the road but not on pavements, if you are caught under the influence of drink or drugs or commit other road-related offences you face a fixed penalty notice and points on your licence.”
Copeland NPT will also be carrying out presentations in schools and sending leaflets and letters to parents highlighting the illegality of e-scooters.
The Child Centred Policing Team will also look to provide focussed input at relevant local youth groups.
