Vic: Shoppers get more than they bargain for from the Sheriff

AAP General News (Australia)
12-08-2009
Vic: Shoppers get more than they bargain for from the Sheriff

MELBOURNE, Dec 8 AAP - Almost $1 million in fines has been dished out by the Sheriff's
Office at the southern hemisphere's largest shopping centre.

During the three-day operation at Melbourne's Chadstone shopping centre that ended
last week more than 14,000 cars were checked, and 3,500 outstanding warrants were finalised.

Officers even applied 138 wheel clamps and issued licence suspension warnings for continued
fine evasion.

Victorian Attorney-General Rob Hulls said only a small number of people ignored repeated
warnings and court enforcement orders.

"The Sheriff's Office is firm but fair on fine defaulters by giving them ample opportunity
to settle their debt and, if a matter is not settled, serious fine evaders face a series
of tough sanctions such as wheel clamping, suspension of licence and registration non-renewal,"

he said in a statement.

A new SMS payment reminder service has been introduced to assist people who have payment
plans for their outstanding fines.

Anyone who wants to settle their debt or apply for an extension of time should contact
the Sheriff's Office on 1300 743 743.

AAP ees/gfr/maur

KEYWORD: SHERIFF

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