Colchester: Week of action targets anti-social behaviour in town

 

Officers have carried out an intensive week of action targeting anti-social behaviour and poor driving in Colchester.

There were high visibility patrols in Greenstead, New Town, Highwoods, Tiptree and the town centre as well as daily engagement events including street meets and coffee with cops where people were encouraged to share any concerns.

There was also action taken to combat speeding, fly tipping, and inconsiderate parking.

The activity involved officers from our community policing and rural engagement teams as well as a significant number of special constables.

The Business Crime Team also visited local businesses and care homes to distribute anti-fraud information.

T/Inspector Laura Stellon of the Local Policing Support Unit said that officers had received feedback from the local community and councillors about what mattered to them. She emphasised the importance of tackling these issues before they potentially escalate.

 

She said: “We identified a number of problems that people had told us were affecting their daily lives.

“Anti-social behaviour (ASB) is linked to criminality and nobody should have to tolerate people causing disturbances or harassing and intimidating them. As a result, we have been tackling ASB in residential areas and the town centre.

“We have also had reports of cars being driven irresponsibly in built-up areas.

“By having a week of intensive activity, we want to send the message that we take these issues extremely seriously.”

The support of partner organisations is key, with the force working alongside agencies including Colchester Borough Council, Essex Watch and Victim Support.

T/Insp Stellon added: “The partnership approach is really important. There are a number of issues that people may not bring to police but take to the council or partner agencies. By working together, we can attack these concerns from a number of different angles.

“Colchester is a thriving town and we want it to continue to be a pleasant place to live and work.”

 

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