10-08-04 VOSA Using Power to Stop in Essex
Essex is the latest Police force in the country to accredit officers from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) with the power to stop goods and passenger vehicles for spot-checks.
In the past, Police officers have needed to be present during spot-checks as only they had the authority to stop vehicles. Now that VOSA has the power to stop vehicles without Police support, VOSA’s effectiveness and flexibility in targeting vehicles which break roadworthiness and traffic legislation will be increased.
Inspector Simon Morgan from Essex Police said “The previous method of working was not always an efficient use of police time and meant VOSA staff were reliant on the availability of uniformed officers to carry out checks. This new agreement now means Traffic Officers no longer need to be present but instead can concentrate on their core policing duties of casualty reduction and tackling crime and disorder”. Inspector Morgan went on to add that “The presence of VOSA marked vehicles on the road will also provide additional reassurance to the motoring public”.
The Police Reform Act 2002 allows Chief Constables to accredit VOSA staff with the power to stop goods and passenger vehicles. The Power to Stop scheme has already been launched in 22 Police Authorities around the country, and, subject to Chief Officers’ agreement, the remaining Police forces in Great Britain are expected to accredit VOSA in the coming months.
Hugh Edwards, Product, Policy and Strategy Director for VOSA said, "Receiving accreditation from Essex Police is a further endorsement of VOSA’s role in targeting unsafe vehicles and drivers for enforcement action."
VOSA officers will operate using distinctly liveried Ford Galaxies with yellow & black battenburg side markings, yellow & orange chevrons at the rear and a roof bar with amber lights & variable matrix signing. All VOSA accredited staff have received Police training in how to safely stop vehicles.
Page last updated: 25/09/2006