Operation Talon
What is Operation Talon?
Operation Talon is part of a long-term strategy to change the
behaviour of groups of motorists who pose particular safety risks
on the roads, such as young drivers and motorcyclists.
The multi-agency Operation Talon targets such groups throughout Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to tackle issues including anti-social behaviour which is a major cause of nuisance and worry to communities.
How does it work?
It combines the principles of enforcement and education. Young
drivers found using areas as race tracks are targeted by officers
from Staffordshire Police's Road Crime Unit. They may use the
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), which detects
drivers who have no insurance, road tax, or are driving while
disqualified. The Camera Enforcement Team from the Staffordshire
Safer Roads Partnership may also be involved.
Depending on their offence, some of the drivers caught breaking the law may be given the choice of being prosecuted or attending a 'Crash' course.
Drivers who do not attend their allotted course face prosecution for the original offence. Those caught for serious offences are not given the choice of attending a course and will be prosecuted. Offenders will only be given one chance to attend a course and will be prosecuted if they re-offend in the future.
