Dispersal order issued to combat disorder and anti-social behaviour

We have issued a dispersal order for an area of Meir in Stoke-on-Trent following a number of reports relating to youths congregating in the area engaging in disorder and anti-social behaviour.

The order, which comes into effect from 4pm this evening (Friday 18 November) runs until 4pm on Sunday (20 November).

It will be in place along Sandon Road, Saracen Way, over the A50 to Stanton Road, Weston Road, Broadway and down Pickford Place.

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.

The measure follows recent reports of young people gathering in the area and causing a nuisance to local residents and businesses.

Deputy commander of Stoke South local policing team, Inspector Mark Burslem, said: “We know that young people want to spend time with their friends and the vast majority who do so are peaceful and law-abiding.

“For the minority who do engage in disorder and anti-social behaviour, we know this has a profound effect on our communities and this order should help us to tackle it.

“No one should feel alarmed or distressed in their local area and we are committed to doing all we can to ensure everyone feels safe and secure while out and about.”

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.