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26

Apr 2021

Last Updated: 26/04/2021
Crime
Crime

Eight motorists fined in Ripon in police metal theft campaign

by John Plummer

| 26 Apr, 2021
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The week-long campaign was held partly in response to fears about the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles. It also targeted fly tipping and metal theft from places of worship.

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Eight motorists in Ripon have received fixed penalty notices as part of a week-long police metal theft campaign.

North Yorkshire Police revealed today it stopped more than 100 vehicles at two roadside checkpoints on Ripon bypass and the York ring road during last week's campaign.

In Ripon, this resulted in three untaxed vehicles being seized as well as the eight fixed penalty notices.

Police across the country took part in the campaign, partly in response to fears about the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles.

Hybrid vehicles, which contain more precious metals in their catalytic converters, and 4x4s, which are more vulnerable because of their higher chassis, are particularly at risk.

The campaign also targeted fly tipping and metal theft from places of worship.

Officers carried out patrols at more than 40 churches, particularly in remote areas, to check security and raise awareness with local residents about metal theft.

Rural areas, including North Yorkshire, are believed to be particularly vulnerable to metal thefts.



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Inspector Clive Turner, of North Yorkshire Police’s rural task force, said:

“Following the covid pandemic, metal prices may start to rise, risking an increase in metal theft and associated crimes.
"Vital public services – such as transport, power and telecommunications – can be severely affected, and construction work can be interrupted and delayed, resulting in a significant knock-on economic impact.
"Similarly, the theft of catalytic converters causes disruption and expense for vehicle owners.
“Heritage sites can also be targeted by metal thieves, including places of worship – and this may result in irreparable structural damage.


Inspector Turner added the campaign had presented "a good opportunity for us to work alongside partners to keep up the pressure on those responsible" and urged people to report suspicious activity.

The police did not provide further details about the nature of offences that resulted in the fixed penalty notices, which can be issued for offences such as driving without due care and attention, using a mobile phone whilst driving, vehicle defects and no insurance.