The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Public urged to report irresponsible drivers
Police Scotland and Crimestoppers are urging members of the public to report any sightings of irresponsible driving across the north in a bid to improve road safety.
Officers have confirmed the issue is one regularly raised by communities across the Highlands and Islands and is one they are aiming to combat.
The warning comes following the aftermath of a serious road traffic collision between a car and pedestrian on Friars Bridge in Inverness back in February.
A member of the public identified the vehicle in- volved and observed it as the driver – who was drunk, disqualified and without insurance – attempted to leave the city.
Following the incident, Andrei Sinzieanu, 26, was charged and pleaded guilty to the crime; sentencing him to 45 months imprisonment as well as receiving a six year driving ban.
Road Policing Sergeant Donnie Mackinnon was the senior investigating officer for the collision.
He said: “The actions of the member of the public who identified the vehicle led to the swift arrest of the individual involved, which ultimately resulted in his conviction.
“While incidents such as this are rare, it is a good example of police and public working together to keep our roads safe.
“Police Scotland is committed to providing a visible presence, improving driver behaviour and reducing casualties on our roads.
“However, we can’t be everywhere and nor would the vast majority of law abiding motorists want us to be.
“With that in mind, we urge anybody who has concerns about dangerous, irresponsible or drink driving to report these issues to us.”
Jim Ferguson, the Scottish chairman of Crimestoppers said: “Crimestoppers are delighted to see justice being done in relation to this hit and run.
“I’m particularly pleased that a member of the public came forward with information which resulted in the driver being quickly apprehended by the police. Such community-spirited action has resulted in the capture of a dangerous person and justice being served.”