Police Setup Vehicle safety checkpoints and targeted action in Penrith as part of Operation Colossus that returned to Penrith on Tuesday evening (28th October), targeting road safety and anti-social driving in the town.
The operation is a focused initiative aimed at tackling dangerous driving, developed as an extension of Operation Enhance, which addresses anti-social behaviour and serious violence in identified hotspot areas.
Officers from Eden’s Neighbourhood Policing Team lead the operation, assisted by colleagues from the force’s Operational Support Unit. Officers conducted a checkpoint on Ullswater Road and on Castlegate.
Officer also carried out proactive patrols in the area.
Over 40 vehicles were stopped at checkpoints with 10 road users given advice around lights and tyres and one vehicle found parked on zig zags.
One driver was also arrested on suspicion of driving over the prescribed limit of alcohol.
Eden Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Phil Hall said: “Our communities tell us road safety and anti-social use of vehicles is one of their main concerns in and around Penrith.
“Carrying out operations like Op Colossus, means we can address these concerns head on, engage with road users and ultimately take dangerous drivers off our roads.
“I would like to say thank you to our communities for raising these concerns with us so that we can respond and take action.
“Please continue to report dangerous and anti-social driving to us via 101 or 999 in an emergency.”
Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “Anti-social and dangerous driving is an issue that is raised with me by residents on a regular basis.
“I’m pleased to see that the Constabulary continue to take action to tackle and reduce this concern on our streets as it is essential that we tackle this.
“I want the message to be very clear: if you drive dangerously on Cumbria’s roads or our public spaces, you will be caught and you will face the consequences.
“The police can only target these drivers/riders when they know about them, so I would always encourage the public to continue to report dangerous or nuisance riding/driving to Police at 101 or 999 in an emergency – each report provides evidence and therefore ensures the Police can place the dedicated resources where they are most needed.
“You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or on their website www.crimestopppers-uk.org.
“If you do not see a change, please contact me at commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk or on 01768 217734. I am your Commissioner, your voice in Policing – please use me to raise your concerns.”
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