Dorset PCC warns Bournemouth vigilante groups risk intimidating residents
Dorset Police commissioner condemns Bournemouth vigilante groups as ‘a solution to a problem that doesn’t exist’
Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick, has condemned the rise of vigilante groups operating in Bournemouth, warning that their actions risk intimidating residents and damaging the town’s reputation.
PCC Sidwick said the groups, who claim to patrol the streets to deter crime, were addressing “a problem which doesn’t exist,” and urged those who genuinely want to help their communities to instead join the special constabulary or volunteer with the police.
He said: “These groups have no statutory powers, no disciplinary systems and no formal accountability to the public.
“Some people might see and feel the idea is a good thing, but the reality might be different. Someone told me they’d seen one of these groups and felt intimidated – that’s the other side of the coin.”
The Police and Crime Commissioner warned of potential legal and ethical risks, including harassment and the impersonation of police officers, adding that without proper training, such groups could cross serious boundaries.
He also criticised the way some vigilante activity is portrayed online, accusing members of “throwing juicy bones to the mainstream media and certain social media individuals” who exploit sensationalism for attention.
According to the commissioner, official figures show total crime in Bournemouth has fallen by 8%, while violent crime is down by 4%, and anti-social behaviour has dropped by between 2% and 26%.
PCC Sidwick added: “These groups feed the false narrative that Bournemouth is unsafe, yet people who visit and who live here have wonderful times.
“We need to tell the truth. this group is there for a reason which doesn’t exist.”
Councillors told the meeting they suspected the group would become less active over winter but likely reappear in spring.
The force will continue to monitor their activities, vowing to challenge misinformation and ensure residents get an accurate picture of crime in the town.