Scots offenders who failed to pay court fines have been left shocked after motors were clamped and bank accounts seized.
The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) recently took action to clamp BMWs, Range Rovers and Mercedes vehicles, while bank arrestment orders up to thousands of pounds were also issued.
In one incident, a tradesman from Musselburgh, who was fined for threatening or abusive behaviour, saw his work van clamped after failing to heed warnings about an outstanding £360 fine.
He not only had to pay his fine, but also settle clamping and seizure expenses to get back to work.
Elsewhere, another man from North Lanarkshire who failed to pay his fine for driving on a restricted road and failing to provide information on identity had £766 unexpectedly seized from his bank account.
The male offender moaned that he had failed to pay the fine as he was in the process of buying a new property and the courts granted an extension after he promised to settle the balance within a week.
However, the man didn't pay up and a Bank Arrestment Order was issued on January 6 to recover the outstanding balance.
Figures published today by the SCTS show continued improvement in collection rates across most fine and penalty types, including in both value and number.
However, while SCTS is committed to ensuring fines are paid, they also say that they recognise that individuals face the very real risk of suffering significant financial hardship at this time.
SCTS Fines Enforcement teams continue to provide information, advice and support to those who are struggling to maintain their payments.
SCTS Executive Director of Court Operations David Fraser said: “The current cost-of-living crisis continues to bite and we recognise that this may impact on people’s ability to pay fines.
“However, ignoring fines and doing nothing can lead to further action being taken which may include additional costs.
“I would urge anyone who is struggling to pay to get in touch with us so we can provide support and advice.
“Where we are satisfied that offenders have failed to pay without a reasonable excuse, Fines Enforcement Teams will employ robust sanctions, including bank account arrestment orders, vehicle clamping, earning arrestment, deductions from benefits and warrants being issued for arrest.
“So please make sure you contact us to make suitable arrangements to pay and avoid any of this action being taken."
Anyone looking for advice or information on paying their fine can access it easily via the national telephone helpline on 0300 790 0014 or via the online form.
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