Dispersal order to tackle crime

Police can move on groups of people if they suspect possible disorder

Police have been given special powers to tackle crime and prevent anti-social behaviour in Derby.

A dispersal order has been introduced in Spondon after complaints of nuisance behaviour, including criminal damage and underage drinking.

The order, introduced by Derbyshire police in conjunction with the Derby Community Safety Partnership, will run for six months.

Police can move on groups of people if they suspect possible disorder.

This is not a measure we introduce lightly but we feel it is necessary Inspector Richard Keene

PC Michelle Azizi said: "It gives us the power to break the groups up, send them on their way. If they live out of the particular area, they are instructed to go home.

"If after 9 o'clock at night and they are under the age of 16 years, we can personally take them home to their parents."

People who ignore the order or who return to an area they have been dispersed from can be arrested.

Inspector Richard Keene, in charge of policing in the area, said: "We have got to the point where the order is necessary because of a minority of people creating problems and seriously affecting the quality of life of residents in the area.

"This is not a measure we introduce lightly but we feel it is necessary to help to ensure that the majority of people can go about their business in safety and confidence."

David Hayes from the Spondon Community Association said: "The order can be helpful in areas where there are large groups.

"But the police have to be careful in applying it, drawing the line between groups of young people who are just there and between those who are going to commit anti-social behaviour."