South Holland MP Sir John Hayes says he’s calling for a continuing crackdown on anti-social behaviour after more dispersal orders were put in place last weekend.
Lincolnshire Police listed a ‘number of bomb threats’, an assault and ‘doors being kicked’ as reason for putting the 48 hour-orders into place in both Holbeach and Sutton Bridge, for the second weekend in a row.
The force says it was ‘pleased to report’ that both towns ‘remained peaceful and calm over the weekend’.
Sir John has spoken out, saying he wants to see firm action to ensure it continues.
“I was in Holbeach on Friday and a number of people spoke to me about the anti-social behaviour they’ve experienced.
“I’ve told them I will take it up with the police themselves.
“Many of the perpetrators are known, their names have been put on social media.
“They’re all quite young, around early teens.
“It’s not the most serious crimes they’re committing but it’s still unacceptable and causing people distress.
“It needs to be cracked down on swiftly as it is not right for a handful of people to lead to others to be fearful.”
When announcing the latest dispersal orders, which give police powers to break up groups mingling together, police said it followed ‘numerous calls from concerned members of the public’ which ‘caused significant disruption and alarm within our community’.
A police spokesman said: “As part of our ongoing investigations, 22 young people have now been identified as suspects in connection with anti-social behaviour and disorder offences.
“Enquiries remain ongoing and further action will be taken where appropriate.”
Neighbourhood policing inspector Paul Smith, said: “A small number of individuals are causing significant disruption, placing unnecessary demand on emergency services, and creating fear and concern within our communities.
“Let me be absolutely clear once again: anyone found to have been involved can expect to face the consequences of their actions.
“Reports of assaults and purported bomb threats are not a joke.
“They divert police resources away from genuine emergencies and put members of the public at risk. We will continue to use all powers available to us to identify those responsible and bring them before the courts where appropriate.
“I would urge parents and carers to know where their children are, who they are with, and what they are doing.
“If your child becomes involved in this sort of behaviour, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting.”
