staff at Lancashire Constabulary face disciplinary charges over speed camera errors

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has determined that three members of the Lancashire Constabulary should face disciplinary charges after 2,115 tickets issued to motorists in the North West of England had to be cancelled and 545 convictions overturned after it was established that a speed camera was wrongly set up and paperwork incorrectly processed. A speed camera operative and two processing unit staff face action. Two other members of the force's Central Processing Unit (CPU) were cleared of any wrongdoing.

The speed camera error resulted in the refund of £35,000 in fines and the rescinding of 1,500 penalty points. The processing investigation meant 2,115 tickets were cancelled and inquiries are under way to find out whether any convictions might have resulted from incorrect paperwork. It is thought that there is insufficient evidence for a criminal prosecution against the speed camera operator.

For more information, contact Tim Williamson, a solicitor in Blake Lapthorn's Motoring Offences team on 01865 253286; or email tim.williamson@bllaw.co.uk.