Police record 71% drop in ASB and criminal damage calls across Southport & Merseyside

Merseyside Police can confirm that we recorded a 71% decrease in the number of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage calls yesterday, Sunday 31 October, compared to last Halloween.

A total of 468 emergency calls (24.8% decrease) and 454 non-emergency calls (15.9% decrease) came in during the police operation yesterday, compared to last year.

There was a 71.8% decrease in reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage, with 120 reports made compared to 426 last year. Total calls were 11,196, an overall reduction of 16.4% from last year. Incidents in which buses were targeted also reduced by 90%.

Our officers did attend a number of incidents, and we were called to reports of youths throwing stones at vehicles in the Haswell Drive area of Stockbridge Village at around 7.15pm. Officers attended and a number of youths were dispersed. No injuries were reported.

We were also called to reports that the windows of businesses on Derby Road, Huyton, had been damaged by youths. Patrols attended and four youths were stop searched. Enquiries into the incidents remain ongoing.

Commander for the policing operation, Chief Inspector Peter Clark said: “It is pleasing that we saw such a significant decrease in reports of anti-social behaviour to us, this Halloween, and I would like to thank the overwhelming majority of the public for enjoying themselves safely and responsibly.

“But there were some incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminality we will not be complacent. Every act of anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact and we understand the distress that such reckless incidents, committed by a minority of individuals, causes to communities and businesses across Merseyside.

“In many cases our officers attended promptly and were able to take action, disperse offenders and prevent further distress for people living in those communities.

“We simply will not tolerate such behaviour and I would urge anyone with any information about incidents last night to come forward.

“Ahead of Bonfire Night later this week, our officers will maintain a visible presence in our communities, engaging with the public and keeping people safe.

“If you experience any anti-social behaviour in your area then please don’t hesitate to contact us so we can take action.”

If you have any information about any incidents reported last night, please DM @MerpolCC on Twitter, Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook, or call 101.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information