Anti-social behaviour can have a ‘detrimental impact’ on communities according to a senior police office in Cumbria.

Chief Superintendent Mick Bird, who is the lead officer for neighbourhood policing at Cumbria Police, said that an increase in community beat officers has seen a reduction in anti-social behaviour in the affected areas.

A dispersal order was issued in Whitehaven over the weekend after a 'significant increase' in youth anti-social behaviour (ASB). 

A dispersal order gives officers extra powers to ask individuals engaging in anti-social behaviour to leave the area and not return, if they return, they risk being arrested.

In a statement on social media, Copeland Police said that ASB 'affects our community' and warned of future arrests. 

Further complaints of ASB were made over the weekend in Great Clifton and Hammonds Pond in Carlisle has frequently been the site of ASB.

Chief Superintendent Mick Bird, Neighbourhood Policing Lead for Cumbria Constabulary said “Anti-social behaviour can have a detrimental impact on individuals and communities.

“Following recent additional investment into Neighbourhood Policing, and an increase in the number of Community Beat Officers, the Constabulary has seen associated reductions in anti-social behaviour.

“Community Beat Officers are community focussed, meaning they are able to offer an accessible police presence and gain a greater understanding of the issues which need to be addressed – especially within our more rural areas.

“These officers also allow us to work more effectively with our partners, other agencies and local businesses to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour more effectively.

“Officers have a number of tools they can use to disrupt anti-social behaviour, such as hot spot patrols, ‘It’s Your Choice’ forms- (which results in letters being sent home and increased scrutiny should someone reoffend), and dispersal orders to remove individuals from an area.

“We would encourage parents and carers to speak to young people about their behaviour in the community and the impact this can have on others as well as their own future.

“We would urge anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour, or anyone who has any information around ongoing issues to contact police so that appropriate action can be taken.”