Dispersal order imposed on Stafford and Stone after string of arrests
Order comes into force this weekend following anti-social behaviour arrests in Stafford
A dispersal order has been put in place across Stafford and Stone town centres this weekend, after a string of arrests linked to anti-social behaviour in the area.
The section 34 order, issued under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, came into force at 4pm yesterday (Friday 2nd October) and will remain in place until 4pm on Sunday (4th October), according to Staffordshire Police.
It gives officers the power to disperse people from designated areas, in a bid to prevent alarm, distress and harassment, and to prevent crime and disorder, the force said.
The order follows work by Stafford Borough's local policing team and the force's county proactive and rural crime team to identify and arrest people believed to be involved in anti-social behaviour in Stafford.
Four young people have been arrested this week.
One has been charged with public order and assault offences, while two teenagers remain in custody, according to police.
Inspector Dan Egerton, Deputy Commander for Stafford Borough local policing team, said anti-social behaviour and violence "have no place in our borough".
"We will not tolerate behaviour that makes residents, visitors and businesses feel unsafe," he said.
"We recognise the impact that this type of behaviour can have on the wider community and local businesses and will continue to work closely with them to identify those responsible to ensure our area remains a safe place for people to live, work and visit," he said.
"I would encourage anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour or associated criminal activity to report it to us," he said.
"Your information helps us build a clearer picture of what is happening and target our resources where they are most needed," he said.
People who witness anti-social behaviour or related criminal activity are being asked to report it to Staffordshire Police.
Reports can be made by calling 101, online, or by calling 999 in an emergency.