Section 34 dispersal order authorised in Southsea over the weekend
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Officers tackling anti-social behaviour along the seafront in Portsmouth have issued a dispersal order covering the areas pictured, which include South Parade Pier, Canoe Lake, Clarence Esplanade, the Hotwalls and the Camber.
The order, authorised under Section 34 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act has been in place from 5pm yesterday evening (Friday 9 June) and will remain until 4.59pm on Sunday (11 June).
This action comes in response to an increase in reports of public order incidents, theft and anti-social behaviour since the weather has got warmer.
We are aware that these incidents are caused by a very small minority of our young population, and would like to thank those who are enjoying the area safely in the warmer weather. Those behaving responsibly do not need to worry about dispersal, this order is in place to protect those enjoying the area legally and safely, and will target perpetrators of criminality and anti-social behaviour.
Officers have been patrolling the seafront, and will continue to do so to address these issues. During our last dispersal order in the area, a number of individuals were moved on after being directed by police. Those who failed to comply were taken home to their parents.
The dispersal authority enables police to deal with any issues of anti-social behaviour in the directed area more effectively, and gives our officers the power to order a person to leave the area with no return within the specified time period. Those who refuse to comply with the order are committing a criminal offence and are liable for arrest.
Individuals who are aged under 16 will be taken be to their home address, and follow-up work will be done with parents.
Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour in the area should call 101 or report it to us online at www.hampshire.police.uk. If a crime is in progress, call 999.