News

Following a court case in Folkestone last week, Kent Police are suspending the use of portable laser speed guns.

The MCN (Motorcycle News) website claimed yesterday (9 October) that police in Kent had suspended the use of all laser speed guns following a court case in Folkestone, but in the statement issued by the Kent force today they say it is only hand-held devices which are affected.

The website disclosed that an email dated 4 October, sent to all officers in south Kent and leaked to MCN, stated: ‘Following a court case at Folkestone yesterday and in liaison with the Criminal Justice Unit (traffic) a review of speed enforcement policy is to be made regarding the use of all laser speed guns in South Kent.

'Pending this review, NO further FPN’s (fixed penalty notices) or summons should be issued.’

The email said it was hoped the review would be completed within two weeks. It said officers would be notified of ‘any changes in policy required before any further enforcement takes place’.

Kent Police have today (10 October) responded with the following statement.

"Laser guns form only a tiny proportion of the speed detection devices used in Kent. We have a variety of ways of enforcing the speed limit, including the issuing of tickets by the Kent and Medway Camera Safety Partnership, which is responsible for fixed cameras and camera vans in places with a higher level of road casualties.

"We would stress that speeding enforcement has an important role in keeping our roads safe for all users and Kent Police continues to enforce the law on the countys roads 24 hours a day.

"Hand-held laser guns are used at local level in response to community concerns about speeding and road safety. Their use has been temporarily withdrawn in the South Kent policing area following a recent court case, to ensure that officers are aware of and follow the appropriate policy and manufacturers instructions for their use.

"Other forms of speed enforcement will continue to be used in the area."