Staffordshire Police have announced the implementation of a significant dispersal order across Lichfield city centre, set to commence this weekend in a robust crackdown on escalating anti-social activities. The order will be active from 3pm on Friday, February 6, until 3pm on Sunday, February 8, granting officers enhanced powers to address community concerns.
Targeting Rising Yob Behaviour
This decisive action comes in direct response to a noticeable increase in disruptive conduct, particularly involving large gatherings of young people. Police reports indicate incidents of abusive behaviour, public disorder, and general disruption that have been negatively impacting local residents and businesses. Authorities are also investigating related issues such as cannabis use, criminal damage, and the problematic operation of e-scooters, e-bikes, and off-road bikes within the area.
Police Appeal to Parents and Guardians
Inspector Melissa Byrne from the Lichfield local policing team has issued a strong appeal to parents and guardians across the community. "We are urging parents and guardians in the area to make sure that young people know this order is in place over the weekend," she stated. "It is crucial to explain the serious consequences that persistent anti-social behaviour can have, both in terms of legal action against offenders and the detrimental impact their actions have on our local community."
Inspector Byrne emphasised that the force does not take such behaviour lightly, acknowledging that anti-social behaviour and associated criminality are significantly affecting the quality of life for local people and the operational environment for businesses. "We're using all of the tools at our disposal to act on these concerns and to put a stop to those persistently causing fear and alarm in our communities," she added.
Legal Powers and Enforcement
The dispersal order has been granted under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This legislation provides police officers with the authority to disperse individuals from a specified area to prevent or reduce the risk of crime and disorder. Key enforcement measures include:
- The power to issue dispersal notices for up to 48 hours
- Authority to return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address
- Arrest and further legal action for those found breaching the order
- Potential extension of the dispersal order if necessary
Staffordshire Police have issued a clear warning that those found committing offences under this order will be dealt with robustly. "Those who fail to comply with the dispersal order are committing a criminal offence," the force stated, reinforcing their commitment to addressing the primary concerns of residents and businesses.
Community Reporting Channels
Residents are encouraged to report any instances of anti-social behaviour through established police channels. The available options include calling 101, using the Live Chat function on the police website, or for anonymous reporting, contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. This multi-channel approach aims to facilitate community cooperation in maintaining public safety and order.
The implementation of this dispersal order represents a proactive measure by Staffordshire Police to restore tranquillity to Lichfield city centre, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to community safety and responsive policing strategies.
