A packet of crisps does not usually cost more than £1 – but one woman ended up paying more than £500 for her savoury snack.

Keeley Patrick, of Croxdale Road, Borehamwood, was fined £534 for emptying half a bag of cheesy puffs onto the pavement in Shenley Road in July this year.

When a policeman caught her in the act and demanded she pick it up, she became verbally abusive and walked away.

The 24-year-old, who handed the remaining packet to a child in a pushchair, was then handed a fixed penalty notice for £75 at an address in Borehamwood later in the day.

But when she failed to pay it, officials at Hertsmere Borough Council extended her deadline and ordered her to appear at Watford Magistrates Court on Friday, November 9.

She failed to turn up and the case was proved in her absence. She was fined £200 with costs of £319 and a mandatory victim surcharge of £15.

Councillor Jean Heywood, portfolio holder for environment, said: “There is no excuse for dropping litter and everyone should take responsibility for their own rubbish.

“You can either use the bins provided or take it home with you. We work hard to keep our streets clean and want everyone to respect the area, and take pride in their community.”

 

Are you Keeley Patrick? Phone the newsdesk on 07795 223 610.