West Yorkshire police lockdown fines revealed according to new data

Data released on Thursday shows that a total of 15,715 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) have been recorded by forces in England up to June 8 for breaches of government public health regulations.

In West Yorkshire, 826 fines have been issued from March 27 to June 8.

In England, fines have been issued for reasons such as driving with non-household members, house parties, large gatherings of people from different households, and camping, among other things, the National Police Chiefs Council report said.

The majority of fines continue to be issued to males in the 18-24 age group according to the NPCC.

Fines have been more likely to be given at weekends and during periods of warmer weather - with the most fines given in a single day on May 30, where 96 people were issued with an FPN.

From June 1, it has been lawful for groups of up to six people to meet outdoors in England (as long as social distancing measures are maintained).

From June 1 to June 8, a total of 161 FPNs were issued across the country.

Since measures were first eased on May 13, a total of 1,526 FPNs have been issued.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, Martin Hewitt said: “We’re now near to closing the first month away from full lockdown. Soon, shops will be open again, and there will be more people outdoors going about their business. Our approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging continues to be successful. Since measures eased in England, the number of fines issued has seen a sustained fall.

“Behind each fine is a case where someone has failed to listen and do the right thing. A fine is issued following engagement to establish the circumstances, explanation of what the regulations are and why they’re in breach of them, and encouragement to stop their activity and return home.

“Officers have used their common sense and discretion to take in to account people’s individual circumstances. We will only enforce as a last resort, against those who are in clear breach of the regulations.

“I would like to thank the vast majority of people who are continuing, as they have always done, to abide by the lockdown measures and the Government’s advice.”

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