Extra patrols see incidents of anti-social behaviour halve in Derby

Targeted patrols to tackle anti-social behaviour in Derby have had great results.

These extra ‘hotspot’ patrols, which involve a combination of officers patrolling in plain clothes and high visibility uniform, have resulted in more than £46,000 worth of drugs being seized.

Over the past twelve months, officers on these patrols have also seized more than £14,000 worth of cash, seven weapons and arrested 25 wanted people.

The hotspot patrols were introduced two years ago and are in addition to patrols by the local Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT). In these patrols, officers are dedicated to the hotspots to tackle and prevent anti-social behaviour.

Sergeant Jamie Millard from Derby City SNT said: “These patrols have really complemented the work we do at the heart of the community, with the results speaking for themselves.

“Whilst incidents of anti-social behaviour in the city have reduced, with these patrols there’s also been a reduction in robberies and thefts from businesses reported in the city centre.

“We will continue to be proactive in being out and about in Derby and encourage the community to continue reporting crimes and concerns so that this can be addressed.”

The local team has also worked with local partners to evict four people who were committing anti-social behaviour from housing within the city centre.

Hotspot policing patrols are short patrols that target particular areas where problems are reported.

Sergeant Millard continued: “Having officers in plain clothes also means we can deal with behaviour that wouldn’t happen if the perpetrators thought a police officer was nearby.

“We’ve been able to ensure there are consequences for illegal and disruptive actions, the work of officers on these patrols has resulted in a total of 16.5 year prison sentences for perpetrators, suspended sentences and community work. We also have a further 14 cases still awaiting a court date."

 “All of this makes it very clear that criminal activity such as anti-social behaviour, drugs offences and theft are not welcome in Derby.”

In Derbyshire, hotspot policing began in 2023 alongside our Immediate Justice scheme which sees perpetrators of anti-social behaviour and other crimes complete work in their local community.

To find out more visit Tackling anti-social behaviour in Derbyshire | Derbyshire Constabulary.