Police have been granted special powers to tackle anti-social behaviour after a group of youths terrorised a Black Country neighbourhood by setting fire to wheelie bins.
Chaos in Bentley streets
The incidents, which caused significant alarm to residents, occurred in the areas of Western Avenue and Farmbridge Close in Bentley. Youths were reported to have been deliberately igniting wheelie bins, creating a dangerous and chaotic situation.
In response, West Midlands Police enacted a Section 35 dispersal order on Monday, January 5. This legislation grants officers the authority to direct individuals to leave a specified area if they are engaging in, or are likely to engage in, anti-social behaviour or crime.
Multi-agency crackdown on yobbish behaviour
The force has significantly increased its visible presence, with more officers deployed on patrol in the affected locality. A coordinated effort is now underway involving the police's Problem Solving and Priorities Team and neighbourhood officers from the Willenhall and Darlaston team.
They are working closely with partner agencies, including West Midlands Fire Service, Walsall Council, and local housing providers, to address the criminal behaviour and support the community.
Inspector Pete Poolton, neighbourhood policing manager for Walsall, stated: "We are working closely with our partners to tackle the issues of crime and anti-social behaviour in the Bentley area."
"We have had a dispersal order in place which will give us extra powers and we will have more officers in the area to offer reassurance. This kind of behaviour simply won't be tolerated," he added, confirming that police will also be engaging with local schools once the youths involved have been identified.
Council vows zero tolerance
Councillor Adam Hicken, Portfolio Holder for Enforcement and Safe Communities at Walsall Council, echoed the police's firm stance. "This behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in Walsall," he said.
"We are working hand-in-hand with the police, fire service and housing providers to take firm action, support affected residents and prevent further incidents. I would encourage anyone with information to report it so we can take swift and appropriate action."
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incidents or ongoing anti-social behaviour to contact West Midlands Police on 101. Reports can also be made directly to Walsall Council's Community Protection team at CommunityProtection@walsall.gov.uk or by calling 01922 653060.
