Residents in a part of Walsall will see a heightened police presence over the next two days as officers utilise special powers to tackle disruptive behaviour.
Enhanced Powers to Combat Crime and Nuisance
West Midlands Police have enacted a 48-hour dispersal order for a section of Bloxwich following a series of criminal incidents. The order, granted under Section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, provides officers with the authority to direct individuals engaged in anti-social conduct to leave the designated area.
The decision comes in response to multiple reports from the community detailing offences that have negatively impacted public life. These incidents include burglary, shop thefts, criminal damage to property, and drug use.
Targeted Area and Increased Patrols
The order came into effect at 2pm on Wednesday, December 3 and will remain active for exactly 48 hours. It specifically covers the locales of Stephenson Square and Stephenson Avenue.
During this period, police patrols will be significantly stepped up. Inspector John Butler, the neighbourhood policing manager for Bloxwich, stated the force is determined to halt the activities of groups, primarily youths, who have been causing issues. "You will see extra officers in the area over the coming days," Inspector Butler confirmed.
Community Reassurance and Action
In an official statement, West Midlands Police acknowledged the detrimental effect the recent spate of crime has had on locals. "We realise the community have been badly impacted by the incidents which are simply not acceptable and we want to reassure residents we are taking action," a spokesperson said.
Inspector Butler reinforced this message, adding: "We can’t tolerate this kind of behaviour which is having a real negative impact on the local community and this dispersal order gives us the powers to move people on who are causing a public nuisance. We can assure the community we are taking action."
The police are urging anyone with information related to the ongoing issues to contact them on 101, quoting log number 4928-021225. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
