Fine-dodging criminals in Stevenage are facing a blitz by police in a month-long clampdown.

Offenders with outstanding fines are being targeted by the court service and Herts police as part of a country-wide campaign to recoup penalties.

Operation Crackdown will target homes in the town to demand payment or confiscate property to sell. Those who refuse to cooperate will be arrested.

Jonathan Lane, area director for the courts service, said:

“The courts will do everything within their powers to trace those who do not pay. Money can be taken from an offender’s earnings or from benefits if they are unemployed. Warrants can be issued instructing court employed agents to seize and sell goods belonging to the offender. Ultimately an offender can be imprisoned for non-payment of their fine. Our message is clear – pay up now or face the consequences.”