I'm confused by the convict/criminal comments. Going by this article in the i online, I don't see those who accepted fixed penalties for Partygata and paid are classed as criminals.

Will the Partygate FPNs go onto a criminal record?

Accepting an FPN is not the same as receiving a criminal conviction, which would then appear as part of a person’s criminal record.

And FPNs issued under coronavirus legislation are not be recorded on the Police National Computer although local records may be held by the relevant police force.

Perhaps someone can clarify/explain.