SIR: I am somewhat surprised at the things that are happening within our Police Force and at the magistrates courts.

For example some of the reports in the BEN: January 12 Drugs/weapons - Drugs and adapted weapon found in man's home. Defendant fined a total of £130 and conditionally discharged for one year. January 12 - Drivers urged to see the light. Special operation being mounted by traffic police to ensure lights of vehicles and cycles are in working order. Vehicles and cycles will be stopped and in serious cases prosecuted. January 11 Theft - professional footballers admit stealing baggage at Gatwick Airport containing £3,000 worth of items. Each was fined £750 and ordered to pay compensation. December 13 Breaching licence regulations - club licensee fined £1,200 for allowing music to be played at 11.50pm. Second offence. Previous offence fined £1,100. Surely if we have sufficient police to stop motorists and visit licensed premises that these officers would be better deployed in trying to stop the younger generation getting involved in drugs or even trying to catch real criminals.

It appears that in the opinion of the magistrates, one of the most serious crimes that can be committed is to play music after hours, judging by the size of the fines that are being handed out.

I am of the opinion that both the police and the courts are taking the easy way out - fine the motorist or publican heavily.

It also makes our solved crime figures look good.

L J Tierney

Bryn Lea Terrace

Barrow Bridge,

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