Chaos in UK town as Easter dispersal order issued over ‘youth disturbance’ | UK | News
A dispersal order has been issued in a town in England this Easter Holiday weekend following reports of antisocial behavior in the area. The order in Kirkby, Merseyside, began at 3pm on Saturday, April 4, and will end at midnight on Monday, April 6, and will be reviewed in more detail here.
Police will be in the area to maintain a visible presence and respond to any incidents. The Kirkby distribution area covers areas including and bounded by Hall Lane, Cherryfield Drive, County Road, Webster Drive, Bewley Drive and Valley Road.
Community Policing Inspector Andrew Robinson said: “Unfortunately, there has been an increase in reports of young people causing disturbances during the school holidays, which is having a negative impact on businesses and shoppers in the town centre.
“Reports include young people stealing in the city center and local sports centre, disorderly conduct, antisocial behavior and other criminal incidents.
“We have made significant arrests and stop checks this week and this proactive work continues with measures such as this dispersal zone to ensure people visiting the area are not subjected to this type of reckless behaviour.
“I implore parents and guardians to know where your child is and what he is doing. Do you want them to inflict this much pain on the people who serve your community?”
“If you witness any antisocial behavior or have information about such incidents please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”
The decision comes under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behavior and Policing Act 2014; This clause gives police officers and police community support traffic officers the power to direct members of the public if they suspect that they are causing or are likely to cause crime, nuisance or antisocial behavior to leave a designated area and not return for up to 48 hours. Under the legislation, officers have the power to seize any property, including vehicles used in the commission of antisocial behaviour.
If a person who has previously been instructed to leave the area returns, a crime will be committed that could eventually lead to arrest.
Anyone with information about antisocial behavior in their area is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ or call 101.
You can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website: Giving information | Crime stoppers. In an emergency, always call 999.
