Dispersal order issued for Meir and Meir Park following anti-social behaviour

A section 34 dispersal notice will come into effect in Meir from 1600hrs on Friday (7 January) until 1600hrs on Sunday (9 Jauary) following an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area.

The order allows police to disperse people from the area if they are involved in instances of anti-social behaviour and take anyone under 16 back to their home.

Anybody committing an offence who refuses this order can be fined up to £2,500 and/or receive a three-month prison sentence.

A dispersal order can only be put in place for a maximum of 48 hours but at the point of expiry, officers will carry-out an assessment and a further period of up to 48 hours may be granted.

Chief Inspector Rob Hessell, who leads the Neighbourhood Policing Team for Meir and Meir Park, said: “Anti-social behaviour has a profound impact on the local community.

“We are working closely with our partners and supporting organisations in helping us combat this type of behaviour in our county – but I would also like to reassure the community that these powers are only used where absolutely necessary.

“Recent reports in the area have included large groups of youths congregating in various areas which have been causing harassment, alarm or distress and disorder.

“This behaviour is impacting primarily upon residents and businesses due to the levels of disorder in the area. Section 35 powers will complement the local patrol plan for the area in providing officers legislative powers to robustly deal with the issues.”

He said: “We understand that young people want to socialise and meet up with their friends. The majority do not cause any problems, however some individuals are engaging in anti-social behaviour in Meir and are causing the community to feel intimidated and worried. We take this very seriously and we are keen to put a stop to it.”