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An anti-social behaviour (ASB) hotspot in Brentwood is receiving dedicated patrols after residents reported groups of youths gathering and activity linked to drugs.
Officers from Brentwood Community Policing Team and Brentwood Council’s community safety officers will complete more than 1,500 hours of patrols and conduct dedicated nights of action in and around Railway Square in the next six months.
Essex’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner has invested £1.1m to combat ASB in eleven hotspot areas across the county.
The funding is provided by central government as part of their Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy and is designed to deliver high-visibility patrols, public engagement, targeted youth outreach and early intervention.
ASB in the district of Brentwood has fallen by 35.9% in the last 12 months with 272 fewer offences recorded. Across Essex, ASB has fallen by more than 60% in six years.
T/Inspector Leanne Archer of Brentwood Community Policing Team said:
“Residents told us they had issues with groups of youths, disturbances, and people using drugs.
“Two-thirds of all calls to the police from the area related to anti-social behaviour, and we know what a negative impact ASB can have on a community.
“Railway Square is just off the main road near the train station where there is a lot of footfall. The flats have walkways, alleys and stairwells that are secluded and give people cover and this can be intimidating for residents, especially late at night.
“Alongside our council colleagues, we have been maintaining a visible presence and engaging with local residents.
“Our relationship with the council’s community safety officers is hugely important. We share information and while we deal with enforcement and criminal activity, they have civil powers to tackle ASB or deal with any issues involving council tenants.
“We are also looking at longer-term solutions such as how we could design out crime through lighting, the position of benches and by closing alleyways.
“People locally appreciate seeing us on patrol but it’s crucial they continue to report any incidents of ASB. Every piece of information helps to build a bigger picture.”
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