Off-road motorcyclists warned in Hawkinge

Neighbourhood police in Folkestone are warning off-road motorcyclists to stop trespassing on private land or risk losing their bikes.

Ten people aged between 17 and 43 have been seen by officers riding across private land in Aerodrome Road in Hawkinge and they have been given formal warnings.

If a person is found to continue to ride in an anti-social manner for a second time within six months of the warning being issued, they will have their bike seized and face prosecution resulting in a fine and or points.

The work is being carried out this summer following local concerns about the anti-social behaviour, and local beat officers have also increased patrols in the area to help provide reassurance.

Community Safety

Detective Inspector James Wyles, of Folkestone Community Safety Unit, said: 'Officers will continue to issue Section 59 warnings to those found to be causing a disturbance and trespassing on land which they do not have permission to use. It is private property and motorbikes should not be using it.

'If they return and reoffend, they will be in breach of their warning, so will be reported for the offence and have their motorbikes seized.

'Our message to those responsible is clear: Continue your anti-social behaviour and you risk losing your bike and facing potential prosecution.'

Safer Summer

Tackling anti-social behaviour is an important part of Kent Police's Safer Summer initiative, which includes a focus on nuisance driving.

For more information on #SaferSummer, follow this link. 

Use this link for more information on anti-social behaviour and how to report it.