Dispersal order in force to tackle anti-social behaviour

A dispersal order has been issued for an area of South Staffordshire as police look to crackdown on anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Wombourne.

The order, granted under section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.

Failing to comply with an order is a criminal offence and police can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address. They can issue the notices for a period of up to 48 hours and anyone found breaching a notice is liable to be arrested and face further action.

There have been reports of ASB in the area recently, with youths reportedly carrying knives and weapons and fighting.

The dispersal order came into force from 7pm yesterday (Tuesday 17 May) and will end at 7pm on Thursday 19 May – unless extended.

The order has been granted for officers and PCSOs to use in the locality of the B4176 and Ounsdale Road.

Inspector Louise Booker, deputy commander for South Staffordshire Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Following an increase in calls from concerned residents, officers will be patrolling the area over the coming days to tackle any instances of crime or anti-social behaviour.

“We understand the impact this behaviour can have on people living in the area, and are continuing to work with partner agencies to tackle issues reported by our communities and encourage parents and guardians to ensure they know where their children are, what they are up to, and who they are with.”

Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by reporting online at www.staffordshire.police.uk/report, sending a direct message on Facebook or Twitter or calling 101.