By Alexis Hope

AN ANGUS driver has become the first in Tayside to have his car seized by police under the Anti-Social Behaviour (Scotland) Act.

The 19-year-old driver, who was warned about his driving and use of his car back in July, came to the attention of police in the past week for similar acts of anti-social driving and his vehicle was seized under the legislation on Thursday night.

To reclaim the vehicle, the teenager must now provide proof of ownership and pay a fee of £105 plus a £12 storage charge for every 24-hour period the vehicle is stored.

Since the implementation of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2004, Tayside police have been working closely with other local agencies, local councils, the children’s hearing system, the courts system, and others, to ensure that the public gain maximum benefit from the legislative powers granted.

The Police (Retention and Disposal of Motor Vehicles) (Scotland) Regulations 2005 came into force on March 17 and enabled Section 126 and 127 of the Anti-social Behaviour (Scotland) Act 2004, which introduced new powers to assist the police in dealing with people who cause alarm, distress or annoyance to the public through the anti-social use of vehicles on or off public roads.

Eastern division commander Chief Superintendent Bill Harkins said, “Tayside police is very keen to work with all our partners in enforcing the provisions of the Anti-Social Behaviour (Scotland) Act, 2004.

“This is the first seizure of a vehicle in Angus under this legislation.

“We will seize the vehicles of those who continue to drive irresponsibly and cause annoyance to our communities.

“It is time for those involved in such acts to mend their ways or face the consequences.”