ACS Calls for Review of On the Spot Fines
06 Mar 2007
The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), the campaigning voice of local shops, has called for a fundamental review of the way Penalty Notices for Disorder (PNDs) are being used to tackle shop theft.
A report by the BBC Radio 4 ‘Law in Action’ programme has highlighted the ineffective use of PNDs due to confusion about their implementation. Examples in the programme included:
• Offenders being given up to 5 PNDs
• PNDs being given out for theft over £100
• PNDs not being properly recorded
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “ACS has been lobbying the Home Office for an urgent review of the effectiveness of Penalty Notice for Disorders and the way they are being used. These latest revelations are prime examples of how the system isn’t working and the guidance that we fought to get adopted is being ignored.”
“We will continue to press for a review of how PNDs are being implemented. The Law in Action findings highlight the need for swift Government action.”
Contact:
Rachel Lawson Communications Co-ordinator
01252 515001
Michael Saxton/ Grappa PR
Julie Kirby 020 7 4864448
Notes:
1. ACS is the convenience store champion, helping local shops thrive through lobbying, insight, information and commercial services.
2. A Penalty Notice for Disorder of £80 can be handed out for retail theft of up to £200. However under Home Office Guidance, negotiated with retailers, the limit should be £100
3. Under the guidance a PND should only be given to a first time offender and in consultation with the retailer.
A report by the BBC Radio 4 ‘Law in Action’ programme has highlighted the ineffective use of PNDs due to confusion about their implementation. Examples in the programme included:
• Offenders being given up to 5 PNDs
• PNDs being given out for theft over £100
• PNDs not being properly recorded
ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “ACS has been lobbying the Home Office for an urgent review of the effectiveness of Penalty Notice for Disorders and the way they are being used. These latest revelations are prime examples of how the system isn’t working and the guidance that we fought to get adopted is being ignored.”
“We will continue to press for a review of how PNDs are being implemented. The Law in Action findings highlight the need for swift Government action.”
Contact:
Rachel Lawson Communications Co-ordinator
01252 515001
Michael Saxton/ Grappa PR
Julie Kirby 020 7 4864448
Notes:
1. ACS is the convenience store champion, helping local shops thrive through lobbying, insight, information and commercial services.
2. A Penalty Notice for Disorder of £80 can be handed out for retail theft of up to £200. However under Home Office Guidance, negotiated with retailers, the limit should be £100
3. Under the guidance a PND should only be given to a first time offender and in consultation with the retailer.