Extra powers for police over busy time of year

POLICe have been given additional powers to deal with anti-social behaviour in two Sheffield neighbourboods in the run-up to Bonfire Night and Halloween.

On Tuesday, October 1, Darnall Safer Neighbourhood Team implemented a dispersal order which will run up until Friday, November 15.

The order gives police officers extra powers to deal with groups of people “engaging in anti-social behaviour.” They could be ordered to leave an areas in which they are gathered, while children under 16 could be taken home.

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A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said: “The period around half term, Halloween and Bonfire Night has in previous years led to an increase in anti-social behaviour in the Darnall and Tinsley areas.

“This has seen police resources stretched and has caused a significant amount of distress to local residents.

“In order to prevent similar problems this year, the section 30 order has been introduced.”

Sgt Andy Hogg added: “The dispersal order is only one part of a package of measures which will include high-visibility patrols and a proactive approach to dealing with anti-social behaviour.

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“Multi-agency teams will be working together on the streets to ensure that everyone is able to celebrate Eid, Halloween and Bonfire night peacefully.

“The message to those who want to cause problems is that it won’t be tolerated and the police will use the dispersal order robustly to prevent such behaviour.”

Anyone with information on such anti-social behaviour is asked to contact police on 101.