In the Launceston Magistrate’s Court today, a 22 year old man from Summerhill lost his vehicle permanently under the provisions of the anti-hooning legislation. 

Under the provisions of the Police Offences Act, a magistrate may order the forfeiture of a vehicle clamped or confiscated by police for a third and subsequent offence.  On the 2 April this year, Scottsdale police seized the man’s vehicle when he was detected driving whilst disqualified on the Tasman Highway.  Today, the Court granted an application from Tasmania Police that the vehicle be forfeited.

The man was also sentenced for two further counts of driving whilst disqualified.

Commander Cowling of the Northern District welcomed the Magistrate’s order.  “Research indicates that disqualified and hooning drivers are responsible for a disproportionate number of serious motor vehicle crashes and these laws protect the public by taking dangerous people off our roads,” he said.

 “With Christmas just around the corner, we want families on holiday to reach their destinations safely.  Our officers attached to the new Road and Public Order Services(RPOS)will be out in force over the holiday period, concentrating on disqualified drivers, speeders and hoons.  Today’s order serves as a timely reminder that if you choose to drive at high speeds, or hoon around our suburbs then you run the risk of losing your vehicle forever,” said Commander Cowling.

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