A nine-hour police blitz on Melton drivers netted more than $275,000 in unpaid fines last week.
Police used automatic numberplate recognition to identify offenders in the operation on High Street.
Traffic was diverted into the Hannah Watts carpark, where 65 people paid on the spot to settle 230 warrants valued at more than $70,000. And 10 people, with 272 outstanding warrants valued at more than $90,000, had the wheels of their vehicles clamped.
A spokeswoman for the Justice and Regulation Department said the outstanding debts consisted of a range of unpaid fines, including for unpaid tolls, and traffic and parking infringements.
Any driver who was unable to resolve the matters on the day was forced to enter into payment plans.
The spokeswoman urged drivers to clear their outstanding matters ‘‘before we find them”.
“The Sheriff’s Office regularly conducts targeted enforcement activity such as special operations and roadblocks, as well as multi-agency operations involving VicRoads and Victoria Police,” the spokeswoman said.
“These operations enable Sheriff’s officers to more easily and efficiently identify fine defaulters.”
Victorian Sheriff Brendan Facey said there would be more blitzes in an effort to stamp out fine evasion and remind people of the serious consequences if they didn’t pay their fines.
“Technology is making it easier to locate fine evaders and, if necessary, take action to have the fines paid,” Mr Facey said. “Ignoring your fines will not make them go away.
“People with outstanding infringements run the risk of tough sanctions.
“They include wheel-clamping, asset confiscation, licence suspension and even arrest.”
Anyone concerned about their fines can call 1300 SHERIFF to speak to someone about their options.
To pay fines, or for more information, visit www.fines.vic.gov.au
