Police issued 451 fixed penalty notices for Covid breaches in Northamptonshire in ONE month

The latest penalty figures revealed that officers issued a total of 451 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for a range of Covid breaches between December 21 2020 and January 17 2021.

These statistics, released by the National Police Chiefs’ Council today (January 28), also show that a total of 1,299 FPNs were issued across the county between March 27 2020 and January 17 2021.

FPNs consisted of 10 for organising a gathering of over 30 people, 163 for failing to wear face coverings on public transport, 10 for breaching international travel regulations and 495 under all tier regulations.

The increase in FPNs issued is believed to be the result of a significant increase in the use of enforcement action and patrols in Northamptonshire.

Superintendent Elliot Foskett, silver commander for the force’s response to Covid-19, said: “Thankfully, most people in our county are pulling together brilliantly, sticking to the rules even in challenging circumstances not just because it’s the law, but because it’s the right thing to do.

“From the start of the pandemic, our officers have used an engage, explain, encourage and enforce approach to applying Covid-19 legislation. Even before policing across the UK was asked to be more proactive in tackling those few people who seem to think they are above the law, Northamptonshire Police recognised that firmer action was needed in order to support Public Health colleagues in their fight against the spread of infection, which is reflected in these figures.

“We all have our part to play in keeping everyone as safe as possible, while we look forward to a future where such restrictions are no longer necessary. To everyone doing their bit we repeat our thanks, and we also repeat our promise to take action against those who compromise our collective efforts by failing to follow the law.”

People are advised to stay at home and only leave to get food, exercise, for medical reasons or to work if they are unable to work from home. Residents also must wear face coverings - unless they are medically exempt - in shops and on public transport.

Neighbourhood policing teams are continuing Covid-19 patrols, focussing on town centres, public transport, parks and supermarkets.

Superintendent Foskett continued: “Sadly we have been living with Covid for almost a year. Social distancing, regular handwashing, wearing a face covering in shops and public transport and reducing contact with others should be second nature by now. There is no excuse by this point for anyone to not know the rules, which exist to protect us all and reduce the immense pressures faced by our incredible NHS.

“We all miss seeing family and friends, but now more than ever it’s vital that people only visit those in their support bubble, and even then only when they absolutely have to.

“It is hard, but before every interaction, please think about whether it is necessary - just because you can do something, it doesn’t mean you should.”