Dispersal order issued to combat anti-social behaviour around Bonfire Night

A dispersal order has been issued in parts of Perton as we look to clamp down on anti-social behaviour around Bonfire Night.

It will come into effect from 5pm on Friday (4 November) until 2.30am on Monday (7 November) and follows recent reports from concerned residents who have seen large groups of youths using fireworks dangerously.

The order allows us to disperse anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour and reduce the likelihood of the public being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder taking place in the area.

Failing to comply with an order is a criminal offence and we can return anyone under the age of 16 to their home address. Anyone found breaching a notice is liable to be arrested and face further action. 

It comes after large groups of masked youths were seen aiming fireworks at one-another on Halloween night and causing distress to local residents and businesses. This dangerous anti-social behaviour is something which we will not tolerate.

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to purchase and possess adult fireworks in a public place. It is also against the law to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for Bonfire Night which cuts off at midnight.

Chief Inspector Chris Cotton, of the South Staffordshire local policing team (LPT), said: “This type of behaviour has a profound impact on the local community and causes alarm and distress with residents and businesses.

“The priorities and safety of our community remains at the forefront of everything we do as an LPT. We recently introduced similar measures to combat illegal street racing and car cruising which resulted in three arrests and more than 60 drivers being reported.

“We will continue to regularly engage with the public and implement measures like this to ensure those engaging in anti-social behaviour and disorder will be dealt with in a proportionate way.

“We want people to enjoy Bonfire Night safely and not ruin the fun for anyone else.”

For more information on anti-social behaviour and what you can do about it, visit: Antisocial behaviour | Staffordshire Police

To report anti-social behaviour, contact us on Facebook, Twitter or call 101. You can report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

In the event of an emergency, always dial 999.