An English business has been charged with attempted fraud after allegedly sending parking charge notices to motorists – using legislation which does not apply in Scotland.
Civil Enforcement Ltd is accused of sending drivers letters demanding they pay civil penalty charges relating to various addresses across Aberdeenshire.
The London-based trader allegedly stated that the notice was enforceable under schedule four of the Protection of Freedoms Act.
Prosecutors in Scotland say the firm acted on this basis, despite knowing that the legislation does not apply to residents north of the border.
The business faces 11 further charges relating to car parking in the north-east.
It is claimed one consumer was sent “persistent and unwanted” solicitations by letter, requesting payment for a parking charge notice between December 2013 and April last year.
The charge states that James Stewart, of Inverurie, was sent mail after notifying the business he was not the driver of the vehicle.
Another motorist, Kenneth Montgomery, of Kintore, is also alleged to have been sent a letter stating that proceedings would be taken against him if he did not pay cash that was due.
Five charges say car owners were sent misleading notices, which were likely to make them believe they had to make payment when the legislation did not apply to Scotland.
The case will call again later this month.