Police in Eckington crackdown on anti-social behaviour

Police in Eckington have issued more than 40 nuisance letters to youths in the last three weeks in a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the area.

Eckington Safer Neighbourhood Team has been working to tackle an increase in the number of reported incidents of anti-social behaviour in recent weeks as one of their priorities.

Police officers and PCSOs carried out high visibility patrols during Friday and Saturday nights and used headcams to target trouble causers.

These patrols resulted in them issuing nuisance letters to the parents of youngsters caught causing anti-social behaviour. Three youngsters were also issued with a section 5 public order warning.

Several youths whose behaviour did not improve after they were issued with a nuisance letter have been made to sign Acceptable Behaviour Contracts. These are written contracts agreed by the police, parents, the school and local council on standards of behaviour the youngster must adhere to.

PCSO Dale Merchant, of the Eckington Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "We will not tolerate this type of behaviour and anyone caught behaving anti-socially will be dealt with in a positive manner. We will continue with high visibility patrols in the area to reassure members of the public."

Nuisance bikes in the area have also been targeted through Operation Earheart.

PCSOs Dale Merchant and Lee Taylor carried out the operation on a weekly basis and since November they have seized six nuisance motorcycles and issued seven Section 59 warnings.

The team is holding a series of drop-in surgeries for residents to voice any concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour.

The next one will be held on Thursday, February 18 from 6.30pm to 8pm at Eckington Business Centre.

For more information about your local Safer Neighbourhood team call 0345 123 3333 or visit the website www.derbyshire.police.uk.