A police blitz on Melton drivers has netted almost $300,000 in unpaid fines.
Using automatic number plate recognition, the Sheriff’s Office and Victoria Police identified 87 drivers with 883 outstanding warrants in the operation on Station Road, Melton South, on Wednesday, November 18.
Full payment was received from 42 people to finalise 175 warrants totalling more than $55,000.
Another 26 drivers, with 354 warrants totalling more than $120,000, were ordered to arrange payment within seven days or risk having their licence or vehicle registration suspended.
Police clamped the wheels of 19 drivers’ vehicles as part of the operation. They must arrange payment to have the clamps removed.
Victorian Sheriff Brendan Facey said more operations would be held in an effort to stamp out fine evasion.
“It’s disappointing that so many people continue to ignore their fines and let their situation spiral out of control,” he said. “This operation is a reminder to people that the Sheriff’s Office is working around the clock to recover money owed to Victorian taxpayers.”
A Sheriff’s operation on High Street, Melton, in August netted 98 drivers with 802 outstanding warrants valued at more than $275,000.
At the time, 65 people finalised 230 warrants totalling more than $70,000.
Anyone concerned about their fines can call 1300 SHERIFF to speak to someone about their options.
To pay fines, or for more information, visit www.fines.vic.gov.au
