Half a million NZers Rack Up Traffic Fines
Tuesday 15 Mar 2005
Dr Muriel Newman - Press Releases - Crime & Justice
It's a disgrace that outstanding traffic fines in New Zealand have doubled over two years to around $450 million, with
58 people owing more than $30,000, ACT police spokesman Dr Muriel Newman said today.
The MP released new figures obtained from Courts Minister Rick Barker that show 445,761 people had unpaid fines for
speeding and traffic infringement offences as at January 31, 2005, up from 199,458 in 2003.
The figures show 436,030 people have current or outstanding traffic fines of $5000 or less, 9,673 people owe fines of
more than $5000, with 58 owing more than
$30,000.
"It is not only unacceptable that the Government is failing to collect outstanding fines, but it is a slap in the face
for law abiding New Zealanders," Dr Newman said. "While there is widespread concern that the Labour party has focussed
police on revenue gathering at the expense of fighting crime, there is nevertheless an expectation that the Government
will successfully collect those fines that have been issued."
"People who have high levels of unpaid fines are likely to be repeat offenders who are a risk on the road. It is
completely unacceptable that this soft on crime Labour Government is protecting lawbreakers. If they don't pay their
fines their vehicles should be confiscated," Dr Newman said.
ENDS