Police increase patrols in Wickford after reports of anti-social behaviour
The increased presence comes after incidents involving catapults and illegal bike use
Residents in Wickford will notice an increased police presence on the High Street and in local green spaces in response to recent reports of anti-social behaviour.
The Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) initially received complaints about catapults being used to damage property and vehicles in the area. Following this, there were incidents involving wildlife being intentionally harmed.
The NPT has also been managing issues related to illegal quad and e-bike use on roads and in parks, which has resulted in several vehicle seizures.
Funding from the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Streets fund has enabled these additional patrols. The focus will be on the town’s main shopping area, Cranfield Park, the recreation ground on Nevondon Road, Wickford Memorial Park, and Runwell Park.
Inspector Emily Pentelow of Basildon NPT discussed the efforts being made to address these concerns:
“These incidents have understandably caused concern locally, which is why we are upping our visibility and getting more officers into the areas where there have been issues.
“This malicious and reckless behaviour simply will not be tolerated. We have already made one arrest on suspicion of animal cruelty, and officers have been out in our green spaces to provide a deterrent.
“Carrying a catapult with the intention to cause harm is illegal and we are taking an equally hard line on the offending involving e-bikes and quad bikes. If you are riding them illegally in public spaces, they will be taken.
“I’d ask people locally to continue reporting any suspicious behaviour they witness. The more we know, the more we can do to prevent further incidents from happening.”