Two cars were seized by Staffordshire Police after they were allegedly seen racing on the A34 in Newcastle-under-Lyme. The vehicles were taken under the S59 Police Reform Act, and officers have warned that a prior warning is no longer required before a car is seized.
The force shared news of the seizure on social media platform X on the evening of Sunday, September 20. In a statement, a spokesperson said: "Two cars seen racing on the A34 Newcastle Under Lyme have been seized under S59 Police Reform Act. A warning is longer necessary prior to seizure. If you drive anti socially in Staffordshire you will be dealt with robustly!"
Vehicles Impounded Under S59 Powers
The S59 Police Reform Act allows officers to seize vehicles being used in a manner causing alarm, distress, or annoyance. Under the act, police can take a vehicle without first issuing a warning if the driver has previously received a warning or if the vehicle is being driven antisocially at the time.
Images of the two vehicles were released alongside the police statement. The cars appear to be older models, with what looks like anti-roll bars fitted to them. One commenter on X responded with a quip about the vehicles' age, asking: "Is it 1997 all over again? A Saxo and a 205 GTi? Or is Staffordshire just 30 years behind the rest of the world?"
Police Vow Robust Action Against Antisocial Driving
The force's message was clear: anyone seen driving antisocially in the area will be dealt with 'robustly.' The post was part of a wider effort to crack down on dangerous and disruptive driving in Staffordshire.
The incident took place on the A34, a major road running through Newcastle-under-Lyme, a town in the north of the county. The seizure comes amid ongoing police operations to tackle street racing and antisocial behaviour on local roads.
Staffordshire Police have not disclosed further details about the drivers involved or any potential charges. The vehicles remain impounded as the investigation continues.
