Positive action taken during week of action targeting anti-social behaviour

Positive action has been taken by Gloucestershire Constabulary as part of a week of action targeting anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The operation, which began on Monday (24 August) and is running until tomorrow (Saturday 29 August), focuses on making town and city centres safer by tackling ASB, shoplifting and illegal electric vehicles.

Officers from Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the county have taken part in days of action and proactive patrols at known hotspots to deter anti-social behaviour and related crime. 

Combined efforts from teams across the county have seen nearly 50 officers spend 229 hours patrolling the streets of Gloucestershire.

Results from so far this week include:

• Four arrests made and three people charged with offences;
• The seizure of three illegal e-scooters;
• Alcohol seizures as part of Public Space Protection Order enforcement. Sealed alcohol containers can be seized if it is believed that the owner is likely to commit anti-social behaviour as a result of consumption;
• Seven stop searches being conducted;
• Six Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) warning letters issued. These are formal notices issued to individuals, businesses, or organisations to stop anti-social behaviour that negatively affects the community;
• Leaflet drops following reports of nuisance behaviour;
• Several interactions with delivery riders and drivers ensuring they had the correct insurance and documentation.

A day of action in Gloucester saw officers arrest three people, seize 11 open cans of alcohol and disperse a group of teenagers who were fighting in the street.

A dispersal order has since been issued to disrupt anti-social behaviour in the city centre.

The Section 34 order began at 3.45pm yesterday (Thursday 27 August) and runs until 3.45pm tomorrow (Saturday 29 August).

It covers part of the city centre including Black Dog Way/Gouda Way to the North, Trier Way to the East, Llanthony Road/Castle Meads Way to the West and St Ann Way/Trier Way to the South.

Elsewhere in the county, officers from Cheltenham were joined by local MP Max Wilkinson on Wednesday (26 August) for a foot patrol along the High Street and at known ASB hotspots. 

The team also spoke to several members of the public who wanted to say thank you for the visible presence or ask about crime prevention advice.

Officers across the county have also engaged with businesses and partner agencies to ensure that any incidents are reported at the earliest opportunity.

Superintendent James Glansfield, Head of Neighbourhood Policing, said: "Anti-social behaviour is an issue faced by towns and cities all across the country and we're aware of the impact that it causes for the residents of Gloucestershire.

"Whilst we have seen a reduction in reported ASB this summer compared to last year, we know far too many people continue to be affected. 

"A lot of positive action has taken place by our Neighbourhood Policing Teams throughout the summer with a collective push this week and continuing through the bank holiday weekend.

"Activity these past few months has seen more than 40 e-scooters and bikes seized from riders causing public nuisance, numerous arrests made and individuals brought to justice. Our work will continue to tackle ASB through the autumn.

"We have received a lot of praise from members of the public and businesses who have seen officers taking part in proactive activity and I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in making the streets of Gloucestershire as safe as possible.  

"I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone experiencing ASB to report it through our online reporting form or by calling 101. We want everyone to feel safe in Gloucestershire."