Coronavirus: More than 100 fines handed out by Norfolk Police for lockdown breaches

Norfolk Police has issued more than 100 fines for breaches of Government regulations during the coronavirus lockdown, according to provisional data.

Since the Government announced the new public health regulations on March 26, to reduce the spread of Covid-19, the figures show that the force has issued 126 fines, up to April 13.

These measures allow officers to issue individuals with £60 fines if they fail to comply after engaging with them, explaining the risks to public health and encouraging voluntary compliance.

It comes after Norfolk Police said it had issued more than 500 warnings to people ignoring the guidelines on social distancing over the Easter weekend.

Fines for breaches of Government public health regulations issued by police officers across England and Wales equates to less than 0.01 per cent of the eligible population – with 3,203 fines issued in England between March 27 and the April 13.

National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) chairman Martin Hewitt said: “The vast majority of people are staying at home in order to protect the NHS and help save lives.

"However, we have seen a small minority of people who, despite our best efforts, have refused to follow the instructions and officers have needed to use their enforcement powers.

“I want to thank everyone who is being responsible and following the regulations.

“Provisional data on the number of fines issued by police forces shows proportionate policing of these new regulations.

"Police have interacted with the public in their tens of thousands, with most engagements ending positively and with no need for a fine.

“Our approach of engage, explain and encourage, and only as a last resort, enforce, is working and will continue.”

Provisional data from police forces in England and Wales shows a reduction in crime during the coronavirus outbreak.

It also shows that the vast majority of the public are following Government regulations enacted in response to the crisis.

Police forces have seen crime reduce by 28 per cent in the four weeks to April 12 compared to the same period last year.

The provisional data also shows serious assaults and personal robbery have fallen by 27 per cent and rape 37 per cent.

Falls have also been seen in residential burglary – down 37 per cent, vehicle crime – down 34 per cent, and shoplifting – down 54 per cent.

Calls to 999 are down by 14 per cent and a 13 per cent drop in 101 calls. Many more people are reporting online – a 61 per cent increase.

Mr Hewitt, said: “The service across the UK currently has an overall absence rate of ten per cent, covering both officers and staff, and not simply relating to Covid-19.

"With reductions in crime, policing is in a strong, resilient position due to the brilliant commitment of officers and staff and the extra hours of our police volunteers.

“Our message to the public is keep reporting crime to us – we are still here for you and our teams are working round clock to keep you safe.

“To those in danger or at risk, my message is we will come when you call for help.”