Vandals destroy force’s first speed camera hours before going live
North Yorkshire's first-ever fixed speed camera has been toppled in what appears to be an intentional act of vandalism hours before its scheduled activation. North Yorkshire Council[1] had set up a permanent speed camera on the A64 in Sherburn village as part of a trial period after previously relying solely on mobile units. Scheduled to begin enforcing the 30mph speed limit from Tuesday, July 1, the camera was found knocked down around 2.20am, leaving live electrical wires exposed.
Sean Flood, a 60-year-old highways worker, was summoned to the site shortly after the incident. He said: "I got there and it was flat, I got there at 3am. At half past two it had been knocked over.
"It was a street light, which is why I was called out, but there's a speed camera attached to it.
"It was hit twice, reversed into twice." North Yorkshire Police[2] are now arranging for the camera to be reinstalled at a different location within the village. A spokesman said: "We believe the damage was deliberate rather than accidental and an investigation is ongoing.
"It is disappointing to see that something intended to help keep the village safe and protect members of the public has been targeted by vandals. "Anyone who has any information about those responsible including anyone who witnessed it or has footage from a dashcam or doorbell camera is asked to get in touch."
On social media platforms, numerous users appeared to condone the suspected act of destruction. Chris Thorpe expressed his admiration, saying: "Not all heroes wear capes."
While Adam Ruddock showed his appreciation with a simple: "Well done." Ian Hollywood added his praise, saying: "This was done by a true Yorkshire person! Well done."
The camera was set for round-the-clock operation for three months as part of an experiment. It's important to note that while North Yorkshire Police had previously used mobile cameras to monitor speeding, this had been their inaugural static enforcement camera. Get all the latest and breaking North Yorkshire news straight to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter here.
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References
- ^ North Yorkshire Council (www.examinerlive.co.uk)
- ^ North Yorkshire Police (www.examinerlive.co.uk)
- ^ signing up to our newsletter here. (www.examinerlive.co.uk)
- ^ by clicking here (chat.whatsapp.com)
- ^ Read our privacy notice here (www.reachplc.com)