Merseyside Police have implemented a 48-hour dispersal zone in a specific area of Rainhill in response to a recent increase in anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. The order, which grants officers additional powers, began at 6 pm on Friday, October 3, and will remain in effect until 6 pm on Sunday, October 5.
Key Takeaways
- A 48-hour dispersal zone is active in a designated area of Rainhill this weekend.
- The measure was introduced following reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage involving youths.
- Police have enhanced powers to direct individuals to leave the area and can arrest those who return.
- Inspector Tara Smith has urged parents to be aware of their children's whereabouts and activities.
Police Response to Community Concerns
The decision to establish the dispersal zone follows multiple reports from the community regarding disruptive behaviour. Local Policing Inspector Tara Smith confirmed the action was taken to address incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage attributed to young people in the Rainhill area.
According to the force, the temporary measures are designed to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety and peace of mind of local residents. An increased police presence is planned for the duration of the order to actively patrol the designated zone and engage with the community.
What is a Dispersal Zone?
A Section 34 Dispersal Zone, authorised under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, is a tool used by police to tackle localised issues of disorder. It provides uniformed officers with the power to direct a person to leave a specified area if they have reasonable grounds to suspect their behaviour is contributing to, or is likely to contribute to, public nuisance or disorder.
Understanding the Enhanced Powers
Under the terms of the dispersal order, police officers and police community support traffic officers have specific legal powers. They can instruct individuals or groups believed to be engaging in or likely to cause anti-social behaviour to leave the demarcated zone for up to 48 hours.
Failure to comply with an officer's direction is a criminal offence. If a person who has been instructed to leave returns to the area within the specified period, they can be arrested. Furthermore, officers are empowered to seize any item they suspect is being used to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.
“This Order has been introduced following reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage being carried out by youths in Rainhill. We take reports of ASB extremely seriously and share the views of most people who live in Rainhill who believe this behaviour has no place in our community.”
Designated Zone Boundaries and Timings
The dispersal order is strictly time-limited, running for a continuous 48-hour period from 6 pm on Friday, October 3, to 6 pm on Sunday, October 5. The zone covers a significant residential area in Rainhill.
The specific streets that form the boundary of the zone are:
- Calder Drive
- Old Lane
- Stoney Lane
- Kendal Drive
- Warrington Road
- Holt Lane
- Longton Road
- Vincent Road
- Ellaby Road
- Rainhill CC field
- Victoria Terrace
- Victoria Street
- View Road
Residents living within these boundaries will see more officers on patrol over the weekend. The powers are targeted at individuals causing issues, not at residents going about their daily lives.
Did You Know?
The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was introduced to give police and local authorities more flexible and effective tools to protect communities from persistent anti-social behaviour. Dispersal orders are one of the key powers established by this act.
A Message to Parents and the Public
Inspector Smith issued a direct appeal to parents and guardians in the area, highlighting the role they can play in preventing disruptive behaviour. She emphasized the importance of knowing where children are and who they are with.
“We would urge parents/guardians to know where your kids are and who they're with, to ensure they don't become involved in situations which could cause disruption or distress to local communities and residents,” she stated.
The police are also calling on the wider community to report any incidents they witness. Prompt reporting allows officers to respond effectively and gather the necessary information to address problems as they happen.
How to Report Anti-Social Behaviour
Merseyside Police have provided several channels for the public to report incidents of anti-social behaviour or provide information. It is crucial to use these channels to ensure a swift response.
- By Phone: Call 101 for non-emergency reports.
- Online: Contact the 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook. When reporting incidents related to this specific issue, please quote reference number 25000807808.
- Anonymously: To provide information without giving your name, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
In an emergency or if a crime is in progress, always dial 999.