Staffordshire Police have introduced a 48-hour dispersal order across Lichfield city centre, granting officers enhanced powers to break up groups and move individuals on, following a surge in anti-social behaviour targeting citygoers. The order, which came into force at 3pm on Tuesday, August 4, and runs until 3pm on Thursday, August 6, is the maximum duration allowed under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
What prompted the dispersal order?
Police have received numerous reports of cannabis smoking, criminal damage, and the inappropriate use of e-scooters, e-bikes, and off-road bikes in the city centre. Officers have also dealt with 'large groups of young people gathering, being abusive and causing disruption in the area'. The behaviour has caused significant distress to local residents and businesses, prompting the police to take decisive action.
Inspector Melissa Byrne, from Staffordshire Police's Lichfield local policing team, said: “We don’t take this type of behaviour lightly and we know that anti-social behaviour and associated criminality is having an affect on local people and businesses. We’re using all of the tools at our disposal to act on these concerns and to put a stop to those persistently causing fear and alarm in our communities.”
Where do the enhanced powers apply?
The dispersal zone covers not only the city centre but also extends to Beacon Park to the west and Stowe Pool to the north-east. The boundaries are marked by the Western By-pass to the west, Station Road and Birmingham Road to the south, St Chad’s Road and St Michael’s Road to the east, and Gala Lane to the north. A red-lined area on a map released by the force illustrates the exact scope of the zone.
Under the dispersal order, police can direct anyone to leave the area if they believe their presence is likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress, or lead to crime and disorder. Failure to comply with the order is a criminal offence and can result in arrest. Officers also have the power to return any individual under the age of 16 to their home address.
Police response and community impact
Staffordshire Police have stated that anyone found committing offences will be 'dealt with robustly' as they continue to act on the main concerns of local residents and businesses. The force is urging parents and guardians to ensure young people are aware of the order and the consequences of persistent anti-social behaviour.
Inspector Byrne added: “We’re urging parents and guardians in the area to make sure that young people know this order is in place over the weekend and to explain the consequences that persistent anti-social behaviour can have, both in respect of action taken against offenders and the impact their criminality can have on the local community.”
How to report anti-social behaviour
Residents and businesses are encouraged to report any anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or using the Live Chat facility on the Staffordshire Police website. Alternatively, incidents can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The police have emphasised that they are committed to addressing the issues affecting the community and will continue to use all available powers to ensure public safety.
