Section 60 stop and search powers authorised in Burton

Additional powers to stop and search members of the public have been granted to officers in Burton town centre for at least the next 24 hours to prevent violence and anti-social behaviour.

Local intelligence has identified an increased and specific risk of serious violence and anti-social behaviour at the Burton Statutes fair. After an in-depth assessment, we are proactively equipping our officers with the powers and resources they need to tackle this peacefully and without incident.

Following authorisation from a superintendent, a Section 60 order from the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 will be in place from 9:50pm today (3 October) until 9:50pm on Tuesday 4 October. The order covers Burton Town Centre bordered by the streets of High Street, Station Street, New Street and Lichfield Street to include the Market Place and the memorial gardens known as Cherry Orchards.

The order grants officers the power to stop and search vehicles or members of the public within a designated area on suspicion of possessing a dangerous weapon or item. If anyone refuses to participate, officers are then authorised to arrest them if it is deemed proportionate.

Under Section 60 officers will also have additional powers to authorise the removal and seizure of face coverings.

Superintendent Victoria Downing from Staffordshire Police said: "We are focused on ensuring members of the public can enjoy the fair and surrounding town centre safely. This authorisation of additional powers will help to deter criminals from entering the area and provide local teams with the powers they need to detect illegal activity in a proportionate manner.

“We are not aware of any specific risk or danger to members of the public, but we will be increasing patrols in the area to provide reassurance. If you see any suspicious activity or are concerned, you can contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter or via our website or 999 in an emergency.”