Over 100 arrests made in Hertfordshire town centre safety campaign
Police targeting crime and anti-social behaviour throughout winter
More than 100 people have been arrested in Hertfordshire as part of a police campaign aimed at keeping town centres safe during the winter months.
Since early December, Neighbourhood Policing Teams have stepped up their presence in retail areas and town centres across the county, targeting criminal activity and anti-social behaviour (ASB).
A total of 122 arrests had been made by 7th January 2026, as part of the ongoing initiative. Police officers have also partnered with local councils and retailers to boost safety, along with measures that include a particular focus on tackling violence against women and girls.
Superintendent Dave Cooke said: “While we work to keep our town centres safe throughout the year, the winter has seen a step up in activity targeting shoplifting, personal robberies, and crimes often associated with the night-time economy such as sexual offences.
With these arrests we have removed more than 100 suspects from town centre streets, hopefully reassuring residents that they continue to be safe places to visit.”
The initiative follows the success of last summer’s Safer Town Centre campaign, which focused on reducing retail and street crime. This winter’s operation aligns with Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards’ Safer Town Centres priority, as detailed in his Police and Crime Plan.
Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: “Our town centres are a vital part of Hertfordshire's economy and ensuring people can visit them to socialise, shop and work safely is a core priority in my Police and Crime Plan. The Safer Town Centre campaign is delivery in action.
I’m grateful for the hard work of Hertfordshire’s police officers, PCSOs and staff over the busy Christmas period. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m determined that Hertfordshire’s town centres remain safe and welcoming places for everyone.”
There are 33 Neighbourhood Policing Teams based in districts across Hertfordshire, supporting efforts to address longer-term issues and concerns from members of the public.
To report concerns related to your area, visit https://bit.ly/hertspolice-psf . Reports of ongoing crimes should be made by calling 999. For non-emergency issues, you can report online at herts.police.uk/report, use live web chat at herts.police.uk/contact, or call 101.