Dispersal order in place in Basingstoke for Hallowe'en
It's to tackle anti-social behaviour
Officers have authorised a dispersal order for parts of Basingstoke, to help deal with reports of anti-social behaviour this Hallowe'en weekend.
Policer say they know that Hallowe'en is a family event enjoyed by people of all ages, but want to stress that any reports of anti-social behaviour and related crime will not be tolerated.
Officers will be patrolling various parts of the town and to help them police those areas effectively, a dispersal order has been put in place.
The order, under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, has been authorised to cover the area pictured in the map from 4pm tomorrow (Friday 31 October) until 4pm on Sunday 2 November.
This part of Basingstoke was identified as a suitable location for the dispersal order, after recent reports of anti-social behaviour in those areas. However, officers will also be out patrolling in other parts of the district this weekend.
The order enables officers to deal with any issues of ASB in a directed area more effectively and means that police will be able order a person to leave the area with no return within the specified period. Those who refuse to comply are committing a criminal offence and are liable for arrest.
Children between the ages of 10 and 16 who are issued with dispersal notices will be taken home to their parents/guardians, and officers will carry out follow-up work.
While on patrol, officers will have a drone available to help them carry out enquiries. Anyone who has concerns is asked to speak to them or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Basingstoke Town Inspector Jim Gallimore said: “We take all reports of anti-social behaviour extremely seriously which is why we have implemented a dispersal order this weekend.
“We want the people of Basingstoke to enjoy Halloween and spend time outdoors, but anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and offenders will be dealt with robustly.
“We know that anti-social behaviour and any associated criminality can make life miserable for local residents and businesses, but please be reassured that we are determined to put a stop to it and target the individuals involved.
“We would also urge parents to ask to ask their children what they are planning to do and when and to have conversations about the consequences of their behaviour. Who are they going out with? What time, and how they will be getting home?”
If you have witnessed or been affected by anti-social behaviour in the area, please continue to report it to police, so they can target patrols and take further proactive action.
Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour is asked to contact police on 101, or submit information online via their reporting tool here
If a crime is in progress, please dial 999.