‘We don’t want to be Grinches but we will seize and crush e-scooters’, a Wiltshire Police inspector has said in a warning about the illegal vehicles.
Force commissioner Philip Wilkinson has joined in urging residents to think carefully before purchasing e-scooters this festive season, highlighting the risks they pose to communities.
Operation Jetsom launched earlier this year, with the aim of targeting riders of illegal electric vehicles and removing them from the streets to protect the public.
Since the enforcement phase started in August, 140 vehicles – including e-bikes – have been seized and destroyed by the force.
Mr Wilkinson said that the illegal vehicles are one of people’s biggest concerns.
“Whilst many of the residents who speak to me are initially worried about the links between these vehicles and the transportation of illegal drugs, we must also consider the huge danger of inexperienced riders travelling at high speeds on our footpaths and roads.
“This is about keeping people safe and addressing behaviour that blights our neighbourhoods.”
Inspector Joe Senior, who is based in Swindon, said that regardless of their age anyone caught using the devices could have it seized and crushed, and face prosecution.
He said: “We don’t want to be Grinches at Christmas, but it’s vital for parents to know the laws around e-scooters before making any expensive purchases you might regret.
“In Wiltshire, it is illegal for e-scooters to be ridden on public roads of pavements, no matter the age of the rider.
“This means if your child is seen riding one, it is likely to be seized and crushed, resulting in an expensive, wasted Christmas present. More than 100 have been seized already, and we are keen for that number to not keep increasing.”
E-scooters, despite being widely available to purchase, remain legal only for use on private land. Their use on public roads or pavements is prohibited.
Inspector Senior added: “We know kids often ask for e-scooters at Christmas and they can be seen as exciting and convenient ways to get around, but they are illegal for a reason.
“They can go at speeds which are dangerous for children, potentially leading to serious collisions – particularly if the rider isn’t wearing adequate safety gear. It can also be dangerous for other road users and pedestrians.
“It’s important to highlight that if serious harm is caused to another person while riding an e-scooter, the incident will be investigated in the same way as if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car.
“Parents may also be investigated for causing or permitting a traffic offence.”
The warning comes during the busy Christmas shopping period, including Black Friday, when many people may be considering e-scooters as gifts. Earlier this week, Wiltshire Police sent a letter to parents and carers via their schools explaining the laws surrounding e-scooters.
