Herald Sun: Riders may face crackdown

Rogue cyclists may face tougher sanctions after a magistrate complained of the “pathetic” penalty handed to a killer cyclist. Premier John Brumby is seeking advice on potential law changes to treat rogue bike riders like dangerous drivers. The pledge comes after a cyclist who ran a red light and fatally struck a pedestrian escaped with a $400 fine. Hell Ride cyclist William Raisin-Shaw’s punishment has sparked outrage from the victim’s friends and frustration from a magistrate hamstrung by the law. “I think most people would say that this should be examined,” Mr Brumby said.

“We are concerned about what would appear to be the penalties for the offence that was committed.” Mr Raisin-Shaw yesterday pleaded guilty to ignoring a red light and striking James Gould, 77, while in a big pack during a high-speed ride through bayside suburbs on August 26 last year. His lawyer told Melbourne Magistrates’ Court the cyclist was in the middle of a pack and under group pressure.

The victim was hit as he crossed Beach Rd, Mentone. Magistrate Charlie Rozencwajg criticised the law that limited the penalty imposed, saying the $400 fine would be considered “pathetic”. The maximum fine for failing to stop at a traffic signal is $550. Mr Rozencwajg said the offence the cyclist faced did not involve causing injury or death. Mr Brumby today vowed to seek advice on introducing potential new offences. But he also noted police made a judgment on what charges were pressed. “There were a number of others charges which could have been laid,” Mr Brumby said. “The police chose to charge this individual with a particular matter.”