Merseyside Police Provide High-Visibility Presence Amid Anticipated Seasonal Increase in Antisocial Behaviour

Merseyside Police officers were out providing a high-visibility presence in Merseyside last night, Wednesday 30 October. 

Officers carried out numerous stop searches throughout the evening, proactively carrying out checks in areas where historically there have been high instances of antisocial behaviour. 

Proactive dispersal zones were put in place across Liverpool, Sefton and Knowsley in anticipation of a seasonal increase in antisocial behaviour. 

Overall, the force reported 14 fewer incidents (4%) of antisocial behaviour and criminal damage than on the same date last year.

There were a number of isolated incidents reported in parts of Merseyside:

We received ten reports of vehicles being damaged by youths on Cronton Avenue, in Whiston, on Wednesday evening where car windows were smashed and wing mirrors broken.

Officers also responded to reports of groups of youths wearing dark clothing and with their faces covered setting off fireworks, setting bins on fire and causing damage to a building in the area of York Street and Window Lane of Garston at around 4pm yesterday.

There was a further report at around 8.40pm of youths causing damage to a car and firing fireworks towards a property in the same area.

Enquiries remain ongoing into each of the incidents and others reported overnight.

Commander for the policing operation, Superintendent Dawn McNally: “We have an extensive policing plan in place during this period leading up to Bonfire Night that recognises the importance of maintaining a high visibility presence, especially in areas where antisocial behaviour has caused distress in the past.

“We take the increase in incidents that we saw last night incredibly seriously, and we will be continuing a high visibility presence across the region in order to keep communities safe and respond to any incidents. 

“Officers are being encouraged to use their stop and search powers to full effect in order to actively prevent further acts of criminal damage and antisocial behaviour. 

“I would like to remind parents and guardians how important it is to know where your child is and what they are up to. No parent wants a knock on their door from a police officer informing them that their child has been arrested or, worse still, has been involved in a serious accident.

“The continuing decrease in incidents is positive. However, we will continue to be vigilant, and would like to take this opportunity to remind people to be safe and sensible when they are out celebrating.

“We understand the distress that incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage cause so if you experience anything in the coming days please report it to us. 

“I’d remind people to always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can pass any information via our social media desk @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook.

“You can also contact the independent charity Crime stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”