Coronavirus FPN’s decrease (250A/20)
Request
Recent statistics published by the National Police Chief’s Council shows revised figures for Fixed penalty Notices issued under the Health Protection Regulations up to 13th May. While many police forces show an increase (due to unreported Fixed Penalty Notices), West Midlands Police shows a decrease. I would like to know:
- What is the reason for the decrease in the revised figures for FPNs?
- If the reason is due to fines being withdrawn, what was the procedure behind this? I would like to know:
- a) If this withdrawal was initiated by West Midlands Police or whether individuals appealed a decision.
- b) If West Midlands Police initiated the withdrawal of the FPN, how they went about this.
- c) If individuals appealed a decision, how they went about this appeal.
Response
Please see our response below.
1.What is the reason for the decrease in the revised figures for FPNs?
No specific recorded information held.
However, in order to assist I have been advised that further training and guidance was provided to officers at the end of April/ beginning May about legislation and issuing FPNs that may have reduced inconsistencies
2. If the reason is due to fines being withdrawn, what was the procedure behind this? I would like to know:
Not withdrawn – No specific recorded information held
a) If this withdrawal was initiated by West Midlands Police or whether individuals appealed a decision.
N/A – No specific recorded information held
b) If West Midlands Police initiated the withdrawal of the FPN, how they went about this.
N/A – No specific recorded information held
c) If individuals appealed a decision, how they went about this appeal.
No specific recorded information held
However, in order to assist I have been advised that legislation has been passed that states that matters will initially appear in the Single Justice Procedure Court whereby, the defendant could plead guilty by post or the Magistrates’ can utilise s.12 of the Magistrates’ Court Act to prove the matter in the defendant’s absence.
The defendant will be given an opportunity for a full court hearing in person on the Summons and if they elect this option then the matter will be listed into a CPS court
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