Westgate on Sea- Policing Update

Westgate on Sea- Policing Update

Dear residents of Westgate on Sea,

   It has been another positive week for policing in the town, with some excellent results addressing the priorities that have been consistently raised to us by the community.

   We are continuing to prioritise our patrolling efforts around off-road motorcycles and modified pedal cycles. Two colleagues from the Thanet Neighbourhood Policing Team seized a heavily modified mountain pedal cycle having seen it numerous times travelling through Westgate on Sea, including along the Canterbury Road. 

   On examination, this modified pedal cycle had the capability to reach 67mph. This was seized by the patrols under the Road Traffic Act for having no insurance, with a range of other offences identified as a result of the interaction, culminating in the arrest of the rider. I would like to take this opportunity as we approach Christmas to emphasise the legal restrictions around electric motorcycles and e-bikes. When engaging with parents following two recent seizures, both had paid £1000 for either the motorcycle itself or the modification equipment, which cannot be recovered. E-scooters are also entirely unlawful when used on a road or public place, and are likely to be seized by Kent Police.

  I have also identified the suspect on two theft from shop offences committed at a retail venue in Westgate on Sea from the CCTV provided to Kent Police. These investigations are now with our Victim Based Crime Team for progression. 

With kindest regards

PC Steven England