Hampshire Constabulary is warning people that celebrating and upsetting others could cost them £80 or more on New Years Eve.
Anyone found by officers to be drunk and disorderly or causing alarm, harassment or disturbing others faces the prospect of a night in the cells and/or an £80 Penalty Notice of Disorder (PND), and could end up in court facing a larger fine or imprisonment.
Actions which could result in fine include:
- Using threatening words or behaviour
- Causing a disturbance in a residential area (rowdy behaviour in the street, knocking over dustbins, shouting abuse at passers by etc)
- Abusing people waiting to catch public transport
- Any other behaviour which causes alarm or distress to other people
Reducing violent crime across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has been the focus for Hampshire Constabulary throughout December.
Inspector Alistair Nichols, Hampshire Constabulary’s Force Alcohol Harm Reduction Lead said, “New Years Eve is a time when some people like to let their hair down, have a few drinks and enjoy themselves. However some people take it too far and end up regretting their actions the following morning when they wake up in a police cell and are faced with an £80 fine.
“Police officers will be out and about on the streets across Hampshire to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable evening and that the celebrations are safe for all.
“Drinking sensibly and safely will ensure yourself and others will have a good night. This message doesn’t stop with New Year as penalty notices can be issued all year round.”
As part of the force’s Safer Christmas campaign, people are reminded to always have a PLAN when going out for the evening
:P – Prepare. Know how you are getting home, pre-book a taxi and let someone know where you’re going. Make sure you have enough credit on your mobile phone for emergencies.
L – Look confident. Someone clearly under the influence of alcohol looks more vulnerable.
A – Act to avoid risk. Think twice before accepting drinks from someone you don’t know well and never accept lifts from cruising cars or cabs.
N – Never assume it will never happen to you. Trust your instincts; they are there to warn you of danger
