Police issue dispersal order in Tarring after anti-social behaviour

Sussex Police said a small minority of young people are committing ASB in the area, that has included assaults, drug dealing and group gatherings with no social distancing.

Chief Inspector Sarah Leadbeatter for Adur and Worthing said: “This behaviour we are currently seeing is completely unacceptable and is causing tension within the community.

“A small minority of young people in this area think it is acceptable to intimidate others in the park, deal drugs and commit ASB.

“I want to put out a strong message that this is unacceptable and we will be ensuring we are utilising the relevant policing powers to tackle this behaviour.

“This will include an increase in targeted patrols, working with partner agencies and arrests where appropriate.”

The section 34 dispersal order will be in place for 48 hours, Chf Insp Leadbeatter said.

It will enable officers and PCSOs to direct a person who has committed, or is likely to commit, anti-social behaviour, crime or disorder to leave a specified area and not return for a specified period of up to 48 hours.

Chf Insp Leadbeatter added: “Our officers will be out patrolling and engaging with this small minority about the dispersal order and the current government guidance around the coronavirus.

“Officers will engage, explain and encourage and only if absolutely necessary, enforce.

“This order should be a warning to all those conducting anti-social behaviour that we are using the relevant powers available to us to tackle this behaviour.”

She urged anyone who has been a witness or victim of this crime to make contact with Sussex Police to ensure the relevant policing action is taken.

To report matters of anti-social behaviour please report online or call 101.

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