Anti-social bikers in Littlehampton warned

ANTI-SOCIAL bike riders in the Littlehampton area could face the prospect of losing their motors, police have warned today (Thursday, April 4).

The advice was given following a recent rise in reports of off-road bikes and mini-motos that have been causing problems in the community, predominantly in the Ham and Wick areas.

Most mini-motos and other off-road vehicles cannot legally be ridden on the road, nor can they be used on pavements, footpaths, cycle paths, on parkland, common land or wasteland. They can only be ridden legally on dedicated sites or private land, with the permission of the landowner.

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PCSO Ray Fraser said that under the Police Reform Act 2005, officers have the power to seize motor vehicles which are causing alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public.

Similar powers now exist for offences of having no licence/no insurance under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005.

PCSO Fraser said: “Repeat offenders should be aware that they may have their vehicles taken from them. The cost to recover these vehicles will be over £100, and if the owner is unable to pay, they may be destroyed.”

Arun District Council also has power, under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, to serve a legal notice and possibly seize the offending vehicle. They may consider prosecution too.

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To be street legal, the vehicle needs to be registered, taxed, insured and have a valid MoT certificate and the rider/driver must have a valid driving licence. The carriageway, pavement and footpaths are all part of the public highway.

Parents and the owners of vehicles can be classed as aiding and abetting if they permit the illegal use of vehicles. The provision of petrol by parents or owners is also aiding and abetting and they are liable to prosecution.

The force is advising residents to report anyone seen using these vehicles illegally by calling them on 101, or via the Operation Crackdown website, by clicking here.