A MAN who discovered his prized classic car was reportedly being used in a banger race in Dorset after it was stolen has blasted police for “bouncing around” his case from one force to another.
Mark Wright, from Andover in Hampshire, had his classic 1985 Ford Crown Victoria stolen from outside his house in mid-June.
It was then later reported the car, along with a Pontiac, had been “smashed to pieces” in a banger race at Ringwood Raceway in August.
Mr Wright said all the evidence is there as to who stole his car but he is left confused as to why the police are not investigating the crime further.
He said: “After the publication I spent numerous weeks wanting a conclusion to the case. I want to know what is happening or if they will be bringing any charges.
“But my case has been bounced around three counties and nobody is giving me any information. The police are happy to let my case go.
“This is a complete travesty – they've spent however much in public money on the case, but it’s a complete waste of time because there is nothing to show for it.
“I’d have been very happy if those responsible for it got a slap on the wrist or a fine because then that way there is at least a conclusion.”
Mr Wright said he is not after any money from this, as insurance has covered the costs and that his car is “probably a washing machine now”.
“I’m absolutely disgusted by it. I understand restraints like the cost of charging people. But I do laugh when I see the police praise themselves for the work they do.
“I’m 66 years old now, I’m from a time where if you did wrong you were held accountable for your actions."
Mark imported the 1985 Ford LTD Crown Victoria station wagon from Los Angeles as a restoration project. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do – when you see people disregard it and smash it to pieces it rubs my nose in it a bit.”
A spokesperson for Hampshire police said: “Following a report of the theft of a Ford Crown from an address in Floral Way, Andover, the vehicle was recovered by Dorset Police.
“Our officers have conducted a full and thorough review of all the available lines of enquiry in relation to the theft of the car.
“Unfortunately, these have not been able to provide the evidence required to identify those responsible for the theft of the vehicle.
“At this time, the investigation has been filed. Throughout our enquiries we have kept the owner of the vehicle updated on the decisions made.”
The Daily Echo contacted Dorset Police and Wiltshire Police. Both forces did not comment, stating it was not their investigation.
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