IN A prosecution brought by Cambridge City Council, a Cambridge resident has been ordered to pay a fine of £440, as well as costs, for abandoning their vehicle in the city. 

Raghav Bali, of Mill Road, was ordered to pay a total charge of £1,129 by Cambridge Magistrates on Tuesday 6 September, for abandoning their vehicle.

Bali was contacted by the council but failed to claim their Audi A4 car, which had been left parked on St Philips Road untaxed. It had been reported to the council as abandoned and not moved for a period of time.

They were issued with a fixed penalty notice and when they failed to pay the fine, the matter was referred to the court and they were prosecuted for abandoning the vehicle.  

Bali failed to attend the court and did not enter a plea. They were found guilty in their absence and because of this successful prosecution, were ordered to pay a fine of £440, as well as £845 costs and a £44 victim surcharge.

Cllr Rosy Moore, Executive Councillor for Climate Change, Environment and City Centre, said: “Abandoning vehicles is a criminal and punishable offence. It is an eyesore that generates significant economic costs which could be better spent on vital services for the community, not to mention environmental, and social consequences such as attracting further anti-social behaviour.

“Residents should not have to suffer because of the thoughtless acts of others and as a council we will not tolerate such behaviours. Unwanted vehicles should be disposed of legally and responsibly.

“I urge all residents who know of abandoned vehicles to report them – your report will be anonymous.”

Abandoned vehicles can be reported on the council's website.