Operation Contempt

A police sting has detected seven offenders who showed contempt for the law by driving away from the Southport Magistrates Court immediately after being disqualified from driving.

Police Minister Judy Spence said: “This sting, aptly named Operation Contempt, was conducted on Wednesday by officers from the State Traffic Task Force and the Gold Coast Traffic Branch and was devised to catch those drivers who ignored their court disqualifications.

“In one instance a woman had just been disqualified for six months. She allegedly left court, talking on a mobile phone about her disqualification, walked a short distance to where her car was parked opposite the police station, removed a parking ticket from the windscreen, got into the vehicle and drove away.

“Another repeat offender was first intercepted by police as he drove from court and was also caught driving by police later in the day. This offender had his vehicle impounded for 48-hours.

“I congratulate police for their efforts in planning and executing this operation.

“Disqualified drivers need to understand if they get behind the wheel they will be caught and they will be punished,” Ms Spence said.

Inspector Chris Thomas Traffic Operations State Traffic Support Branch said these offenders clearly have contempt for the law and other road users.

“These offenders are disqualified because they have already driven in a manner that posed a significant risk to the health and safety of the community and they think they can do as they please.

“They have to be stopped and held to account and that is exactly what we are doing.

“Operation Contempt will continue to be conducted in the vicinity of courts across the state” Inspector Thomas said.

Media contacts: Minister’s Office: 3239 6218

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