Police tackling antisocial youths in St Leonards area

Sussex Police has taken action against a number of youths as officers continue to tackle antisocial behaviour in St Leonards.
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Crime News.

The force has dedicated a Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant, two Police Constables and two Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in a bid to curb criminal behaviour and improve the quality of life for residents in the area.

Working in partnership with the Hastings Youth Offending Team and other agencies, the officers focus on a variety of actions to make a positive change to the community and the lives of those involved in antisocial behaviour.

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Sergeant Chris Varrall, of the Hastings Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We are working closely with young people and their families and we have a new way to tackle low level antisocial behaviour jointly with the Hastings Youth Offending Team.

“In the past couple of weeks, we have issued seven dispersal forms directing youths to leave specified areas; we have also issued three letters to parents and guardians, ensuring they are aware of their children’s whereabouts and activities.

“Letters have also been sent to four youths inviting them to attend the police station to be placed onto a behavioural contract.

“We hope this will positively engage them with us and external agencies, and will prohibit them from conducting any further antisocial behaviour.”

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The action follows the introduction of a dispersal order in central St Leonards, which allows officers to direct groups and individuals to leave a designated area at key times during the week.

Should an individual return to the area within 48 hours, they can be arrested.

Sussex Police received 17 calls in the first seven days of November relating to youths and antisocial behaviour in central St Leonards.

If you experience any antisocial behaviour in your area, report it to Sussex Police by calling 101.

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