S Yorks' local anti-Asbo tactics pay off

Throughout April the local Safer Neighbourhood Team in Thorne, Doncaster, kept closer-than-usual tabs on kids on the streets. Local residents have applauded the project.

Thirne's Operation Advantage was planned by PC Clair Garland and took place every Friday and Saturday evening in April. SNT officers, including Doncaster Council Community Safety Wardens with support from headquarters officers met with local youngsters on the street and gathered information on people causing antisocial behaviour in Thorne town centre.

The results: 214 teenagers were spoken to and advised about their behaviour, moved out the area and were made aware of the Section 30 Dispersal order. All the teenagers were sent an activities pack, giving information on alternative social activities available to them. ASBO 1 letters were sent to the parents of the youngsters officers spoke to. A fixed penalty notice was issued for a public order offence, 15 dispersal notices were issued, 20 teenagers were returned home to parents and 13 teenagers attended Thorne Police station to sign Acceptable Behaviour Contracts.

Local businesses were visited during the operation. One shop keeper said, “What have you done to all the kids?” and a couple, walking their dog, approached PC Clair Garland and said, “Great work, we feel a lot safer with you here.”

Garland said, “This operation has had a significant impact on the number of young people in Thorne Town centre. The number of antisocial behaviour incidents has decreased during this operation and the quality of life for local residents has greatly improved.”