Police order will disperse troublemakers in Winyates

Gary Morgan

01 May 2008

WINYATES has been slapped with its fifth dispersal order following complaints of more drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour by gangs in the area.
Obtained by police officers from the North East sector of Redditch, it will last two months from April 18 and specifically covers the Winyates Centre, including car parks, the bus lane and the site of the former old people's home.
Sergeant Neil Billingham said: "The previous four dispersal orders have all proved very successful in reducing the number of calls received by police to virtually nil.
"This latest one was applied for as a direct result of police observations and complaints from residents, visitors to the area and shop workers about large gatherings and disorderly behaviour in the centre.
"People quite naturally feel intimidated when groups of up to 20 youths and adults gather in one particular area. Alcohol is often consumed and as time goes on behaviour often deteriorates, sometimes becoming criminal."
Dispersal orders mean that where police or CSOs (Community Support Officers) believe the presence or behaviour of more than two people is causing intimidation, harassment or distress to the public, they can be ordered to leave the area.
It also allows police to return home any young person under the age of 16 who is causing trouble between the hours of 9pm and 6am. They can be arrested if they fail to comply.
"We have found that this immediately reduces the numbers of those gathering, and those who do not heed the warnings may find themselves being arrested or being the subject of other appropriate measures such as ASBOs or Acceptable Behaviour Contracts," Sgt Billingham added.
Police will also visit the parents of any youth dispersed under the order.

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