Arrests made and cars seized as West Midlands Police tackle illegal street racing
West Midlands Police want to put the brakes on illegal street racing across Birmingham and the Black Country.
Last updated 14th May 2024
West Midlands Police have arrested nearly 30 people, seized cars, issued warnings and reported 180 motorists for driving offences as it looks to put the brakes on illegal street racing across Birmingham and the Black Country.
Court orders ban street racing in Birmingham and the Black Country, as the focus on keeping the region's roads continues.
Since an interim injunction in December 2022, 26 street racers have been arrested across Birmingham and the four Black Country boroughs. Fifteen arrests have been made since January.
More than 2,000 warning letters have been sent out to motorists and 180 drivers, passengers and spectators have been given Community Protection Warnings designed to stop a person committing anti-social behaviour. They have attended diversionary and educational courses.
Twelve drivers have been handed the full Community Protection Notices which means if they breach this notice they can be handed a fine as much as ÂŁ2,500. Twelve vehicles have also been seized by traffic teams.
The action taken is all part of Operation Hercules, an ongoing campaign to target people involved in street racing or car cruising.
The injunctions prohibit people driving, being a passenger or rider at a gathering where there is motor racing or motor stunts or other dangerous or obstructive driving.
DC Mark Campbell, from Operation Hercules, said: “Our team has been working hard to combat street racing and cruising on the region’s roads and will take action against motorists who flout the law and put other road users at risk.
“We work closely with our partners on a range of tactics to identify, disrupt and enforce against those taking part or watching street racing. Our priority is keeping the roads safe for all.”
Anyone breaching the ban will be in contempt of court and could face penalties including imprisonment, a fine, or an order to have their assets seized.