PEOPLE who have been avoiding court fines are being warned to come forward immediately or face having their wages docked, cars clamped or be imprisoned.

In a week-long blitz beginning on Saturday (Oct 15), Operation Payback 3 will see court enforcement officers join forces with police to recover fines.

Dorset's courts are writing to offenders with a "pay your fine or pay the price" letter and using posters and leaflets inscribed with "Think You'll Get Away With It? Think Again" to warn those who don't pay that they will be knocking on the door.

Those who don't pay could face having their fine deducted from their wages or benefits, their car clamped or being arrested and imprisoned.

The nationally co-ordinated fines blitz is part of the government's UK-wide Payback campaign to recover criminals' assets and prevent money laundering. The two previous Payback operations last year netted nearly £2.5million.

Colin Webster, head of operations for Dorset, said: "Nationally £438 million worth of financial penalties is currently outstanding.

"In Dorset there is approximately £6million outstanding and we are going to vigorously pursue offenders who flout the law by continuing to avoid payment.

"Our message is simple, we will not tolerate the non-payment of fines and compensation to victims.

"If you have an outstanding fine and are unable to pay, contact us immediately. Often assistance can be given. Failure to do so will lead to a warrant for arrest and the final sanction will be prison."

If you are having difficulty in paying a fine or compensation contact the Fines Officer for Dorset at the Law Courts, Poole, BH 15 2RH or call 01202 711843.

First published: October 15