Sunday 30 September 2007
RIBBLETON/Preston:: Bus fire yob caught on camera
Bus fire yob caught on camera
A teenage thug who launched an arson attack on a Lancashire bus was caught on camera.
The vandal and four other yobs were recorded placing their feet on the seats of the Longridge to Preston service before he torched seats on the Stagecoach double decker, causing £300 damage.
The group boarded the late bus on Berry Lane, Longridge, at 11.20pm on August 28 and got off the bus on Ribbleton Hall Drive, Ribbleton, Preston.
However, the vandal did not realise had been recorded by a hidden CCTV camera and was arrested and charged with criminal damage.
Rick Wilson, Lancashire's Safer Travel Unit manager, said: "There are thousands of CCTV cameras on Lancashire buses and our drivers are amongst the very best in the country at reporting such incidents. This should send out a very clear message to those who choose to become involved in such acts. "
The youth pleaded guilty to the offence at Preston Youth Court. He was sentenced to 24 hours in an attendance centre and must pay £100 compensation and £30 costs.
http://www.lep.co.uk/news/Bus-fire-yob-caught-on.3217228.jp
The group boarded the late bus on Berry Lane, Longridge, at 11.20pm on August 28 and got off the bus on Ribbleton Hall Drive, Ribbleton, Preston.
However, the vandal did not realise had been recorded by a hidden CCTV camera and was arrested and charged with criminal damage.
Rick Wilson, Lancashire's Safer Travel Unit manager, said: "There are thousands of CCTV cameras on Lancashire buses and our drivers are amongst the very best in the country at reporting such incidents. This should send out a very clear message to those who choose to become involved in such acts. "
The youth pleaded guilty to the offence at Preston Youth Court. He was sentenced to 24 hours in an attendance centre and must pay £100 compensation and £30 costs.
http://www.lep.co.uk/news/Bus-fire-yob-caught-on.3217228.jp
BOLTON: Public to join police walkabout
Public to join police walkabout
POLICE are inviting residents in Westhoughton to join them on a troubleshootingtour of their neighbourhood.
Officers will lead a community walk around the town centre where they have been working to stamp out anti-social behaviour and underage on-street drinking.
The walk, on Thursday night, will allow residents and business owners to highlight policing and safety concerns, point out trouble hotspots and areas where they feel threatened.
The walk will leave Carnegie Hall, next to Westhoughton Town Hall, at 6pm and will take in Victoria Street, Market Street, King Street and Central Park before finishing at the Community College in Central Drive.
Similar walks have taken place in Tonge Fold and Hall i' th' Wood.
Bolton West Area Inspector Mohammed Razaq, said: "These walks present local people with an ideal opportunity to actually show us issues such as anti-social behaviour, litter, graffiti and underage drinking that cause them distress. Please come and join us on the walk and play your part in fighting crime and protecting people in your neighbourhood."
Last month police in Westhoughton announced the success of their anti-social behaviour crackdown, Operation Anvil, which was launched in April following complaints about rowdy youth behaviour in the town centre on Friday and Saturday nights.
There have been 181 reports involving anti-social youths since the start of the operation, compared to 257 in the same April to August period last year.
http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/display.var.1708070.0.public_to_join_police_walkabout.phpGrangetown, Middlesborough: Sick yobs batter innocent teen
Sick yobs batter innocent teen
Chapman ... left with 'sickening' injuries
A TEENAGER is still struggling to speak after he was left bruised and battered after an unprovoked attack.
Robert Chapman, 16, was punched, kicked and stamped on by two men who stole his mobile phone and cash last Saturday night.
When Robert cried for help, a passer-by noticed but, instead of coming to his aid, he joined in the attack.
Robert is recovering at home in Grangetown, Middlesborough, after the three men left him with a suspected fractured cheek bone, swollen face and eye and cuts and bruises.
His mother, Diane Chapman, 43, said two men on bikes and both in their early 20s approached her son and asked for his mobile phone.
The teenager, who hopes to become an FA football coach, handed it over because he did not want any trouble and they left.
Mrs Chapman said: “They rode away from him but then he heard them come back after him and they shouted 'let’s kill him'. “They dragged him on to some waste ground and began punching, kicking and stamping on his head. “A third person came along and Robert asked for help, but he replied ’why should I help you?’ and he joined in as well. “I just cannot understand why they would do this. It’s sickening.” Police are investigating the attack, which took place on the Trunk Road, near the Skippers Lane industrial estate, at around 10.15pm. Detective Sergeant Paul Husband described the injuries as “sickening” and added: “They are amongst the worst I have ever seen and I appeal directly to anyone with any knowledge of the perpetrators of this attack to contact me.”
NORTHUMBRIA: Tackle angling yobs
Tackle angling yobs
LAST week, my friend took his wife for a day’s fishing to one of our reservoirs, which he has done for a number of years.
The weather was fine and they settled down to what they thought was going to be a good day’s fishing away from it all, and made their first cast at 8am.
The mood changed when four adult male anglers arrived about one hour later, turning on their radio and proceeding to fish as well as carry on loud conversation to each other using foul and filthy language.
No one could escape from their conversation, with three F-words regularly used in one sentence.
As my friend’s wife and other anglers were upset by their behaviour, he asked them politely would they curb their language as there were ladies fishing. The answer was “F*** off. No one is telling me to watch my language”.
http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/sundaysun/dearcarrie/tm_headline=tackle-angling-yobs&method=full&objectid=19831683&siteid=50081-name_page.html
LAST week, my friend took his wife for a day’s fishing to one of our reservoirs, which he has done for a number of years.
The weather was fine and they settled down to what they thought was going to be a good day’s fishing away from it all, and made their first cast at 8am.
The mood changed when four adult male anglers arrived about one hour later, turning on their radio and proceeding to fish as well as carry on loud conversation to each other using foul and filthy language.
No one could escape from their conversation, with three F-words regularly used in one sentence.
As my friend’s wife and other anglers were upset by their behaviour, he asked them politely would they curb their language as there were ladies fishing. The answer was “F*** off. No one is telling me to watch my language”.
Eventually, he — the husband — was persuaded by his wife to pack up and go to the other side of the reservoir . . . other anglers also upset by their behaviour said they should be reported.
The next morning, my friend did report the incident to Northumbria Water Leisure Services and got a positive response from them, that is, if anglers have any experience like the one explained, report this to the ranger on duty and action will be taken there and then.
So come on anglers, protect the fishing from these people and improve the reservoirs and environment.http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/sundaysun/dearcarrie/tm_headline=tackle-angling-yobs&method=full&objectid=19831683&siteid=50081-name_page.html
FOLKESTONE: Yobs break street cleaner's arm
Yobs break street cleaner's armPOLICE are appealing for help identifying a group of youths who assaulted and hurled abuse at a street cleaner.
The 62-year-old broke his arm when he was pushed over by one of the yobs on the zig zag path near The Leas in Folkestone on Friday.
They verbally abused the man before pushing over his work barrow. One of the group then shoved the man over, causing the injury.
The incident happened at around 10.15am. The main offender is described as a white male aged 15 or 16, six feet two inches tall and of slim build with short fair hair.
He was wearing a blue tracksuit with a blue stripe on the arms and trainers.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call PC Scott McKillop on 01303 850055, or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
http://www.kentnews.co.uk/kent-news/Yobs-break-street-cleaner_s-arm-newsinkent5417.aspx
BRIERFIELD/Burnley: Missile-throwing yobs hunted
Missile-throwing yobs hunted
YOUTHS who threw stones at a police station and passing cars are being hunted by police.
The teens damaged vehicles, and the new Brierfield police office, when they hurled the large stones around 9pm on Friday.
The driver of a Seat Ibiza contacted police to alert them to the incidents in Colne Road.
He described the vandals as a large group of young Asian men, and officers said the youths could have put drivers and passengers in serious danger.
Police appealed for anyone with information to call Nelson Police on 01282 472634.
http://www.burnleycitizen.co.uk/news/newsheadlines/display.var.1720182.0.missilethrowing_yobs_hunted.phpWANTAGE: Get yobs off the streets
Get yobs off the streets
RESIDENTS in Wantage are so concerned about yobbish anti-social behaviour they have pleaded with MP Ed Vaizey to help them reclaim the streets.
Mr Vaizey was due to meet a group of residents from the Smith's Wharf area of the town tomorrow to discuss their fears and respond to appeals for more police action.
He said: "Naturally, I'm concerned to hear about these incidents that are causing concern to residents.
"People are calling for action. We need to look at whether the police are responding appropriately enough - and there's the continued debate over youth provision in the town."
One resident from Smith's Wharf said he planned to move out because he was fed up with late-night noise and vandalism.
The man, aged 35 who did not want to be named, said: "The youngsters are using the play area as a fairground at 2am, drinking and urinating on the play equipment and I am sick to death of it.
"It is terrible and the park needs to be closed. I'm concerned about my children going into the park in case they get cut with glass from broken bottles. Nobody takes any responsibility for it.
"The meeting is definitely a good thing and it needs Mr Vaizey to help sort it out, but it is not just this area - the problem needs to be tackled across the whole country." The meeting is the latest development following a spate of serious incidents this year in Wantage.
In August, five youths were arrested and one taken to hospital after a violent brawl in the Smith's Wharf, near Mill Street. Earlier this year, a 22-year-old man suffered stab wounds and, in another incident, a teenage girl was raped.
Since then, people living in the Wharf area and the Charlton and Stockham districts have complained about alcohol-fuelled, unruly behaviour. They say they are at their wits ends about drinking and drug-taking near children's play areas and petty vandalism.
Vale of White Horse District councillor for Charlton ward, Bill Melotti, said: "I have had a lot of feedback from residents and this will be passed on to the police and the local neighbourhood action group for discussion.
"The feeling is that the public wants to see a greater police presence to stop unacceptable behaviour that is making the lives of some people a misery.
"The police have been active in the Charlton district confiscating alcohol from young people and warning shops about their obligations in not selling alcohol to young people. I think we need to see more of this action extended to other areas."
Last month, the Wantage Herald reported how some residents wanted to see a more high-profile police presence with curbs on drinking, better surveillance of pubs and more CCTV cameras.
http://www.heraldseries.net/news/latest/display.var.1716525.0.get_yobs_off_the_streets.phpWe're still in the the Brown stuff
Anyone who thought the sight of Tony Blair scuttling out of Downing Street would stop the rot in the Labour ranks might have found last week's conference a bit of a shocker.Because it became clear that Blair's exit has done nothing to dispel the ugly truth - that this Government is run by a bunch of inept fools. Never more obvious than when the Party's Three Stooges - Straw, Jowell and Smith - gave performances that confirmed Britain is still in a whole heap of trouble.
First, we had Britain's luckiest politician Tessa Jowell (lucky because, even though she's soppy, ineffectual and messes up on a daily basis, she's a woman and Labour are short on women) who reckons members of London's street gangs - those same yobs who shoot small boys and knife you in the guts if you so much as look at them the wrong way - are actually entrepreneurial geniuses who should be given jobs that would harness their leadership skills.
What? So Mrs Jowell thinks that just because a druggie uses a syringe to inject his heroin he's capable of running hospitals? And that a yob who shoots and knifes people should be heading up a team at Scotland Yard because he understands the criminal mind? The naivete (not to mention the stupidity) of the woman is stupefying. She's had a decade in Government, yet still she talks like some idealistic, wet-behind-theears university student who's had no experience of the real world. Jowell, who obviously hasn't looked at her own Government's crime figures, reckons that only a very small percentage of young people are involved in violent crime. Tell that to Rhys Jones's parents. Tell that to the parents of those 17 other kids who met their deaths this year at the hands of teenage gangs.
Then we had Jack Straw announcing that people who defend themselves, their homes or other people against criminals will no longer face prosecution.
Well, whoop de doo - give the man a coconut for finally showing some common sense. The real crime here, of course, is that decent law-abiding citizens were ever prosecuted in the first place. And the fact this Government has finally come around to the idea that it's the perpetrators of crime who should be punished, not the victims, shows what a bunch of blithering idiots they really are.
Straw had every opportunity to enforce this new law when he was Home Secretary, but he didn't, presumably because Tony said No and Straw didn't have the stomach for a fight. But mainly, I suspect, because ordinary people are far easier to pin down and prosecute than criminals and Mr Straw needed to get his crime detection figures up.
And lastly there was Home Secretary Jacqui Smith of whom we all had such high hopes, but who first blotted her copy book a few weeks ago when she announced the answer to Britain's spiralling yob culture (that Tessa Jowell apparently knows nothing about) was to give offenders Acceptable Behaviour Contracts, which aren't a punishment, simply a piece of paper they have to sign where they promise to be good little lads and lasses.
Then last week she compounded the cock-up by slating TV shows which glorify binge drinking. "Why celebrate drunken behaviour on our TV screens," she droned, "when alcohol misuse can cause real damage."
Yes and who bloody facilitated alcohol misuse in the first place? This Government, that's who, when they gave the nod to 24-hour drinking. Time and again they were warned what would happen - and now it has. Violence around pubs and clubs has risen 130 per cent in the year since licensing laws were relaxed. Violent attacks by drunks are happening at the rate of 3,000 a day and the numbers of people being hospitalised with drink related injuries has doubled.
So Ms Smith shouldn't be terribly surprised that TV is mirroring what's happening on our streets.
So if Gordon Brown is at home this weekend patting himself on the back after what he thinks was a good conference, he needs to pour himself a large one and get back to the drawing board.
http://www.sundaymirror.co.uk/news/sunday/2007/09/30/we-re-still-in-the-the-brown-stuff-98487-19870694/WESTON-SUPER-MARE: YOB'S B&B FREEBIE
YOB'S B&B FREEBIE
A neighbour from hell kicked out of his council flat is now living in a B&B - at taxpayers' expense.
Yob Shaun Breedon faced eviction for shouting and swearing, throwing bottles and banging on his walls all night.
But because he quit his flat in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, earlier than expected he got put up for free in bed and breakfast accommodation.
A North Somerset Council spokesman said: "We cannot discuss individual cases but if someone is classed as homeless we do have a duty of care."
http://www.people.co.uk/news/tm_headline=yob-s-b-b-freebie&method=full&objectid=19870985&siteid=93463-name_page.html
BLACKWOOD/Wales: New crackdown on street yobs
New crackdown on street yobs
A MAJOR operation is being launched in Blackwood to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour Police and council officers will blitz the town centre over the next few weeks to crack down on yobbish behaviour, including underage drinking, car-cruising, alcohol-fuelled disorder, shoplifting and vandalism.
The operation is part of the CANDO (Community and Neighbourhood Directed Operations) initiative, which has had success in other towns in the Caerphilly council area, including Pontllanfraith.
The initiative will see Gwent Police officers and Caerphilly council wardens take to the streets in a number of operations.
It will run until October 13.
The initiative will also call on residents to become part of the campaign and report incidents, as well as other agencies tackling issues such as underage drinking.
Blackwood sergeant Ian Muirhead said the operation will reassure the public that the police and council are dealing with the issues they raise.
The initiative is being welcomed by local councillors, who say residents are suffering from anti-social behaviour.
Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said: "For the victims it can be very serious indeed and affect their quality of life.
"I'm pleased the police are doing something about it. Working with the community is the key."
Fellow Blackwood councillor Kevin Etheridge added: "Blackwood needs to be blitzed of this anti-social menace once and for all. Residents are at their wits' end."
Both councillors said the operation must not be a short-term solution.
They are backing calls for a dispersal order to tackle young drivers who cruise up and down Blackwood High Street, particularly on Thursday nights, causing a nuisance to residents.
Caerphilly council's cabinet will consider the request at a meeting next Tuesday.
If given the go-ahead it will allow police to move on groups of drivers who gather in one place and make it an arrestable offence if they return.
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/swanews/display.var.1722509.0.new_crackdown_on_street_yobs.php
A MAJOR operation is being launched in Blackwood to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour Police and council officers will blitz the town centre over the next few weeks to crack down on yobbish behaviour, including underage drinking, car-cruising, alcohol-fuelled disorder, shoplifting and vandalism.
The operation is part of the CANDO (Community and Neighbourhood Directed Operations) initiative, which has had success in other towns in the Caerphilly council area, including Pontllanfraith.
The initiative will see Gwent Police officers and Caerphilly council wardens take to the streets in a number of operations.
It will run until October 13.
The initiative will also call on residents to become part of the campaign and report incidents, as well as other agencies tackling issues such as underage drinking.
Blackwood sergeant Ian Muirhead said the operation will reassure the public that the police and council are dealing with the issues they raise.
The initiative is being welcomed by local councillors, who say residents are suffering from anti-social behaviour.
Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said: "For the victims it can be very serious indeed and affect their quality of life.
"I'm pleased the police are doing something about it. Working with the community is the key."
Fellow Blackwood councillor Kevin Etheridge added: "Blackwood needs to be blitzed of this anti-social menace once and for all. Residents are at their wits' end."
Both councillors said the operation must not be a short-term solution.
They are backing calls for a dispersal order to tackle young drivers who cruise up and down Blackwood High Street, particularly on Thursday nights, causing a nuisance to residents.
Caerphilly council's cabinet will consider the request at a meeting next Tuesday.
If given the go-ahead it will allow police to move on groups of drivers who gather in one place and make it an arrestable offence if they return.
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/swanews/display.var.1722509.0.new_crackdown_on_street_yobs.php
DALTON/Barrow: Vandal-hit allotments to get new security gates
Vandal-hit allotments to get new security gates SECURITY gates are to be installed at Dalton allotments to deter vandals.The plots off Fair View, were hit on Tuesday night after thieves smashed their way in by cutting padlocks.
A number of sheds were broken into and a caravan had its door kicked in. Padlocks were also stolen in the raid along with chains, a hedge trimmer and a cockerel. Barrow Borough Council now hopes to stop vandals in their tracks with the installation of security gates next month.
Dalton mayor, Councillor Bill Bleasdale, has an allotment on the site but his property was not affected. Cllr Bleasdale said: “Periodically we get one or two mindless vandals who cause damage for no reason.“I understand from the borough council that gates are going to be installed to improve security.“If we get these gates, it will definitely assist in keeping these vandals out. “It will be completed this year, which hopefully will deter the casual vandal. It’s just mindless.”
Barrow Borough Council parks and amenities officer, Katy Hall, said the security gates were an ongoing project which she was hoping to have erected by the end of next month.Miss Hall said: “The gates will go in at the entrance to the allotments site. They will stop general members of the public and undesirables going up there.“I am looking to get them up and completed by the end of October. “All of the allotment holders are aware of this and they are all happy that we’re doing something about it.”
But Miss Hall said even if there had been gates in place, it would not necessarily have prevented the latest spate of vandalism because the thieves came well prepared with heavy-duty bolt cutters.
PC John McBride, of Dalton police station, is investigating the crime.He has appealed for anyone with information about the break-in last Tuesday to get in touch.
People can call Dalton police on 0845 33 00 247, or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/viewarticle.aspx?id=546400
ULVERSTON: Vandal causes £1k hit
Vandal causes £1k hit
A BOTTLE throwing vandal caused £1,000 worth of damage to a shop window in Ulverston town centre over the weekend.The 10ft by 4ft window at Blockbuster Video on Market Street was broken by someone who threw a beer bottle at the window in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Police say the damage to the window was reported at 2.40am.THE owner of a Kia Picanto car has been left counting the cost of an attack by a vandal who scratched the full length of the driver’s side.The car was parked on Grasmere Road, Ulverston. The damage was reported to police at 11.20am on Saturday.
http://www.nwemail.co.uk/news/viewarticle.aspx?id=546432SILVERTON/Mid-Devon: Spate of graffiti attacks
Spate of graffiti attacks
Police are appealing for information regarding a spate of graffiti attacks in a Mid Devon village.
Silverton, near Cullompton, has had several sites vandalised within the past week.
Sergeant Rob Curtis, of Tiverton police, said: "It really detracts from the appearance of the village.
"Anyone with any information concerning the graffiti attacks can contact PC Dave Parr on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference number KT/07/2070.
http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=142325&command=displayContent&sourceNode=142320&contentPK=18493019&folderPk=80024&pNodeId=142330CARDIFF: Vandalised club 'will remain shut’
Vandalised club 'will remain shut’
A TROUBLED youth club will not reopen after yobs broke in and exploded an animal in the microwave.
Tongwynlais Youth Club in Cardiff was sabotaged by vandals after yobs broke in and cooked an animal, believed to be a rat or squirrel, in August.
Now the Merthyr Road facility will not reopen its doors after a series of vandal attacks.
Before the microwave incident, the youth club had been closed for a year because it was repeatedly targeted, but residents had clubbed together to refurbish it and hoped it would reopen this autumn.
Cardiff council has now agreed to provide alternative facilities for the village.
Ward councillor Linda Morgan said the villagers were still disgusted by August’s incident and hoped the culprits could still be caught.
She said: “After the tragedy of the squirrel people were so shocked that they said they volunteered to help us get the youth centre ready again.
“We are disappointed about not using it anymore but as long as the youth of Tongwynlais benefit, that’s the main thing.”
From tomorrow volunteers and council-funded workers will staff a weekly Tuesday evening youth club for year five and six pupils at the Tanyard Day Centre, Queen Street, Tongwynlais. Trained street-based youth workers will also provide services for teenagers and other facilities, such as a special youth services bus, could be provided in the area in the future.
The Merthyr Road youth club remains disused, but Tongwynlais Village Hall Committee is consulting with other village groups which could utilise it. Since the microwave attack in July, vandals have continued to target the site by climbing on the roof and making holes in the ceiling.
Committee chairman Coun Morgan said a £15,000 grant had now been secured to erect protective fencing around the building.
She said: “The police have told us they are still investigating the vandal attack on the youth centre and are hopeful they will be able to proceed to interviews.
“We are a very close-knit community here and we were all shocked by what happened. But we do need to move on and encourage children to work with us in order to make sure we don’t have any more problems.”
http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/southwalesecho/news/tm_headline=vandalised-club-8217-will-remain-shut-8217&method=full&objectid=19865538&siteid=50082-name_page.html
A TROUBLED youth club will not reopen after yobs broke in and exploded an animal in the microwave.
Tongwynlais Youth Club in Cardiff was sabotaged by vandals after yobs broke in and cooked an animal, believed to be a rat or squirrel, in August.
Now the Merthyr Road facility will not reopen its doors after a series of vandal attacks.
Before the microwave incident, the youth club had been closed for a year because it was repeatedly targeted, but residents had clubbed together to refurbish it and hoped it would reopen this autumn.
Cardiff council has now agreed to provide alternative facilities for the village.
Ward councillor Linda Morgan said the villagers were still disgusted by August’s incident and hoped the culprits could still be caught.
She said: “After the tragedy of the squirrel people were so shocked that they said they volunteered to help us get the youth centre ready again.
“We are disappointed about not using it anymore but as long as the youth of Tongwynlais benefit, that’s the main thing.”
From tomorrow volunteers and council-funded workers will staff a weekly Tuesday evening youth club for year five and six pupils at the Tanyard Day Centre, Queen Street, Tongwynlais. Trained street-based youth workers will also provide services for teenagers and other facilities, such as a special youth services bus, could be provided in the area in the future.
The Merthyr Road youth club remains disused, but Tongwynlais Village Hall Committee is consulting with other village groups which could utilise it. Since the microwave attack in July, vandals have continued to target the site by climbing on the roof and making holes in the ceiling.
Committee chairman Coun Morgan said a £15,000 grant had now been secured to erect protective fencing around the building.
She said: “The police have told us they are still investigating the vandal attack on the youth centre and are hopeful they will be able to proceed to interviews.
“We are a very close-knit community here and we were all shocked by what happened. But we do need to move on and encourage children to work with us in order to make sure we don’t have any more problems.”
http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/southwalesecho/news/tm_headline=vandalised-club-8217-will-remain-shut-8217&method=full&objectid=19865538&siteid=50082-name_page.html
BURNLEY: Yobs stone firefighters
Yobs stone firefighters
AROUND 30 yobs threw bricks and wood at firefighters as they tried to tackle a blaze started by the youths.
Firecrews were called to the Daneshouse area of Burnley at 9.30pm on Friday after teens set fire to a pile of rubbish.
When the arrived the large gang set upon the engine and crew, hurling missiles at those who had stepped out of the vehicle.
Police had to be called before the crew were able to put out the fire.
Crew manager Steven Hartley said: "This is incredibly dangerous behaviour and makes it very difficult for us to do our job.
"Fortunately no one was hurt but we wasted precious man power by having to use one of the firemen as a look out so that he could warn colleagues if something was about to be thrown."
http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/headlines/display.var.1723655.0.yobs_stone_firefighters.php
AROUND 30 yobs threw bricks and wood at firefighters as they tried to tackle a blaze started by the youths.
Firecrews were called to the Daneshouse area of Burnley at 9.30pm on Friday after teens set fire to a pile of rubbish.
When the arrived the large gang set upon the engine and crew, hurling missiles at those who had stepped out of the vehicle.
Police had to be called before the crew were able to put out the fire.
Crew manager Steven Hartley said: "This is incredibly dangerous behaviour and makes it very difficult for us to do our job.
"Fortunately no one was hurt but we wasted precious man power by having to use one of the firemen as a look out so that he could warn colleagues if something was about to be thrown."
http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/headlines/display.var.1723655.0.yobs_stone_firefighters.php
Mid-Sussex: Drunk yobs wreck charity shop
Drunk yobs wreck charity shop
Childhelp volunteer Sue Maltby with the
tumbler used to smash the shop window
Drunken teenagers are being blamed for a mindless act of vandalism that has landed a charity with a £1,400 bill.
Vandals targeted Childhelp Hassocks smashing the front window and leaving the shop floor littered with glass with excrement and urine discovered in the adjoining alley.Childhelp trustee Ruth Barrett-Miles said the incident at the Keymer Road shop seemed to reflect a wider picture of a growing problem of youngsters involved in binge-drinking and criminal damage.
http://www.midsussextimes.co.uk/mid-sussex-news/Drunk-yobs-wreck-charity-shop.3242411.jp
Wales: In court: Man who defied the yobs
In court: Man who defied the yobs
A COUNCILLOR has appeared in court charged with obstructing police after trying to disperse yobs who had been plaguing pensioners.
Allan Pritchard found himself on the wrong side of the law after he was called by a frightened pensioner to try to sort out a problem of a large gang of youths causing a disturbance in the street.
But when the situation turned nasty and police were called, the Plaid councillor, who is shadow deputy leader of Caerphilly council, and the pensioner were arrested and put into cells for the night.
The next day police cautioned the pensioner but charged Coun Pritchard with a criminal offence when he failed to accept the same fate.
At Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court yesterday, politicians and residents who had been plagued by the gang, turned out in force to support Coun Pritchard, who denies obstructing police.
Among supporters were Llanelli AM Helen Mary Jones, representing the Assembly’s Plaid Party, shadow leader of Caerphilly council Plaid councillor Lindsay Whittle, and fellow councillors Phillip Bevan and Judith Pritchard.
A trial failed to get under way because of delays with presenting CCTV footage of the incident, which took place on August 4 in Oakdale, to the defence.
Magistrates adjourned the case for a two-day hearing due to start on November 21 at Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court.
The case comes just days after Home Secretary Jack Straw called for more rights for the public to protect themselves against criminals and a relaxation of the law when force is used against criminals and those using anti-social behaviour.
http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/southwalesecho/news/tm_headline=in-court-man-who-defied-the-yobs&method=full&objectid=19867921&siteid=50082-name_page.html
A COUNCILLOR has appeared in court charged with obstructing police after trying to disperse yobs who had been plaguing pensioners.
Allan Pritchard found himself on the wrong side of the law after he was called by a frightened pensioner to try to sort out a problem of a large gang of youths causing a disturbance in the street.
But when the situation turned nasty and police were called, the Plaid councillor, who is shadow deputy leader of Caerphilly council, and the pensioner were arrested and put into cells for the night.
The next day police cautioned the pensioner but charged Coun Pritchard with a criminal offence when he failed to accept the same fate.
At Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court yesterday, politicians and residents who had been plagued by the gang, turned out in force to support Coun Pritchard, who denies obstructing police.
Among supporters were Llanelli AM Helen Mary Jones, representing the Assembly’s Plaid Party, shadow leader of Caerphilly council Plaid councillor Lindsay Whittle, and fellow councillors Phillip Bevan and Judith Pritchard.
A trial failed to get under way because of delays with presenting CCTV footage of the incident, which took place on August 4 in Oakdale, to the defence.
Magistrates adjourned the case for a two-day hearing due to start on November 21 at Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court.
The case comes just days after Home Secretary Jack Straw called for more rights for the public to protect themselves against criminals and a relaxation of the law when force is used against criminals and those using anti-social behaviour.
http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/southwalesecho/news/tm_headline=in-court-man-who-defied-the-yobs&method=full&objectid=19867921&siteid=50082-name_page.html
Saturday 29 September 2007
WARMINSTER: Yobs wreck changing rooms
Yobs wreck changing rooms
WHEN vandals broke in and destroyed the changing rooms at a rugby club, they devastated not only the facilities but also the hopes of more than 200 players.
Washbasins were smashed, windows broken, the roof pulled down and electricity cables torn from walls in the attack at Warminster Rugby Club's ground in Folly Lane.The club's chairman, Chris Bell, of Sambourne Road, is outraged at what he describes as 'evil vandalism' and angry that the club will have to use its funds to have the facilities replaced.
Mr Bell said: "It is absolutely dreadful. The players were in despair when they saw what had happened because it means that we can't use them for matches and we still have a full fixture list to play.
"We are going to have problems finding another venue. We are now looking to get a permanent building up there as soon as possible."
The ground is used by the club's senior team and various youth teams.
Mr Bell said: "They have damaged everything from the walls to the electricity and lighting. It is just pure evil vandalism."
The attack on the changing rooms took place some time between September 16 and September 20 and police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
Acting Sergeant Dave Mills, of Warminster police, said: "I am appalled at this sort of mindless vandalism.
"Things like this are completely anti-social and detrimental to the wellbeing of the community.
"There are now hundreds of kids who can't train and it will take a lot of money to sort it out, which is something the club could probably do without."
Players young and old will continue to use the pitch, which is leased to them by West Wiltshire District Council, for training, but will have to rent ground space from the army at the Land Warfare Centre in Imber Road to play matches, so the home and visiting teams can change and socialise.
Mr Bell alerted councillors to the incident at the weekend and after seeing the extent of the damage are now liaising with the district council to seek funding for a permanent community facility to be built.
Town councillor Pip Ridout said: "We went up there with a camera at the weekend and there wasn't a bit of porcelain left that was bigger then four inches. It is absolutely awful.
"The roof has been ripped down, every single wash basin smashed and the floor is just covered with porcelain. It is a complete and utter mess; it's totally destroyed.
Cllr Bill Parks was equally disgusted.
He said: "These facilities are vital to many youngsters who play rugby and no longer have basic changing facilities. Their enjoyment of these outdoor activities will be devastated.
"The mindless vandalism and destruction will have a lasting effect on the club and is soul-destroying for the parents, supporters and other schools and clubs."
http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/news/latestheadlines/display.var.1721536.0.yobs_wreck_changing_rooms.phpSOUTHPORT: Yobs descend on posh suburb
Yobs descend on posh suburb |
|---|
POLICE have launched a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in an affluent Southport estate. Residents in the Radnor Drive and Knob Hall Lane area of Churchtown have been plagued for months by teenage yobs causing trouble and destroying property. The trouble has included youths urinating on driveways, knocking down walls, vandalising property, throwing eggs at residents and even smashing the windows of a disability car. Following a meeting with residents and councillors, police bosses have decided to increase their presence in the area to tackle the problem. Neighbourhood Inspector Neil Moss told The Champion: “We held a surgery last week and allowed residents to voice their concerns. “As a result we have increased the number of patrols in the Radnor Drive and Knob Hall Lane area to reassure people and control anti-social behaviour. “These problems are caused by a minority of local youths, we have a good idea of who they are and we are taking steps to deal with it and make the neighbourhood a nicer place to live.” One resident told us: “People are scared to go out for fear of what might happen to their homes while they’re away, but the response from the authorities has been very encouraging and everyone feels safe for now.” Cllr Sue McGuire, who also attended the surgery, said: “We had a really useful and productive meeting and it was a great opportunity for the residents to tell myself and the police about what they have experienced. “The council is equally determined to clamp down on youth disorder and help the residents feel safer.” http://www.champnews.com/html/newsstory.asp?id=6086 |
BRADFORD: More police on streets
More police on streets
Extra police are on patrol in the Allerton and Lower Grange areas of Bradford in a renewed crack down on drug-related activity, damage and anti-social behaviour.
In the last seven months police have arrested 25 drug dealers, seized £88,000 of drugs and imposed ten anti-social behaviour orders. A total of 24 crack houses have also been closed in two years.
A huge billboard poster highlighting the recent successes is on display in the area and a portable version will be used at other locations.
Inspector Paul Hepworth, of Bradford North Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "This campaign is in direct response to the community expressing concerns over the level of drugs activity in the area.
"Drugs can have a major impact on the quality of life in any area and it is only by working alongside local residents and our partner agencies that we can make a real difference.
"I would encourage the people of Allerton and Lower Grange to be reassured by the work we have done so far and to play their part in helping us to improve the situation even more for the future."
Detective Inspector Neil Benstead, of Bradford District Drugs Team, said: "A large part of our success depends very much on communities having the confidence to pass on information to support our efforts."
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/newsindex/display.var.1722375.0.more_police_on_streets.phpWESTHOUGHTON/BOLTON: Westhoughton
Police shown trouble spots by locals
POLICE joined residents and council representatives in Westhoughton on a walkabout to highlight troublespots in their community.
Officers wanted to hear what local people though about initiatives to stamp out anti-social behaviour and under-age drinking and find out more about problem areas for vandalism, graffiti and other nuisance crime. They also spoke to youngsters playing in Central Park.
Chief Inspector Martin Greenhalgh said: "We all listened and took on board what local residents wanted to see happening in their community. We will certainly be using information gathered on the night to help set the local policing priorities for the area.
"We were particularly interested to hear what young people in the area had to say. A group playing in the park provided a wish list' of facilities they would like to see in their neighbourhood and we will be seeing what we can do to provide some of them."
Last month, police in Westhoughton announced the success of their anti-social behaviour crackdown, Operation Anvil, which was launched in April following complaints about rowdy youth behaviour in the town centre on Friday and Saturday nights.
There have been 181 reports involving anti-social youths since the start of the operation, compared to 257 in the same period.http://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/display.var.1723192.0.police_shown_trouble_spots_by_locals.php
BURNLEY: ASBO slapped on Briercliffe yob
ASBO slapped on Briercliffe yob
Peter Wilkinson - ASBO
The ASBO is aimed to curtail the behaviour of 17-year-old Peter Wilkinson, of Shore Avenue, and means he could face arrest if he enters an area bordered by Holgate Street, Granville Street and Talbot Street or goes within 50m of Eastern Delight, in Briercliffe.
He is also banned from having an open container of alcohol in any public road.
Commenting on the order, secured at Burnley Magistrates' Court, Sgt Julian Wilkinson said: "This is the third Anti-Social Behaviour Order to have been secured by officers working in the Briercliffe area and unfortunately it is likely it won't be the last.
"This firm action will go some way towards addressing community concerns about anti-social behaviour and serve as a warning to other youths intent on causing problems in this area.
"Our message is clear – anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in our local communities and working in partnership with local residents, we will take action."
PC Ian Thompson, Community Beat Manager for Briercliffe, adde: "Anti-Social Behaviour Orders are the last resort in a range of tactics used by local neighbourhood officers to tackle community problems.
"By cracking down hard on the individual trouble makers, and working with the local community, we can continue to significantly reduce anti-social behaviour and further reduce already low crime levels in the area.
"There is a lot of work is underway in the Briercliffe area of Burnley, much of it spearheaded by the Local Neighbourhood Police Team and its partners. That work includes test purchasing operations at off-licences to combat underage drinking and increased police patrols at Anti-social Behaviour Hot Spot locations.
"In addition, we are working with local schools and colleges to deter youths from crime."
http://www.burnleyexpress.net/burnley-news/ASBO-slapped-on-Briercliffe-yob.3242683.jp
POLICE in the Briercliffe area have secured an Anti-Social Behaviour Order on a local youth as part of their continued efforts to tackle rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour.
The ASBO is aimed to curtail the behaviour of 17-year-old Peter Wilkinson, of Shore Avenue, and means he could face arrest if he enters an area bordered by Holgate Street, Granville Street and Talbot Street or goes within 50m of Eastern Delight, in Briercliffe.
He is also banned from having an open container of alcohol in any public road.
Commenting on the order, secured at Burnley Magistrates' Court, Sgt Julian Wilkinson said: "This is the third Anti-Social Behaviour Order to have been secured by officers working in the Briercliffe area and unfortunately it is likely it won't be the last.
"This firm action will go some way towards addressing community concerns about anti-social behaviour and serve as a warning to other youths intent on causing problems in this area.
"Our message is clear – anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in our local communities and working in partnership with local residents, we will take action."
PC Ian Thompson, Community Beat Manager for Briercliffe, adde: "Anti-Social Behaviour Orders are the last resort in a range of tactics used by local neighbourhood officers to tackle community problems.
"By cracking down hard on the individual trouble makers, and working with the local community, we can continue to significantly reduce anti-social behaviour and further reduce already low crime levels in the area.
"There is a lot of work is underway in the Briercliffe area of Burnley, much of it spearheaded by the Local Neighbourhood Police Team and its partners. That work includes test purchasing operations at off-licences to combat underage drinking and increased police patrols at Anti-social Behaviour Hot Spot locations.
"In addition, we are working with local schools and colleges to deter youths from crime."
http://www.burnleyexpress.net/burnley-news/ASBO-slapped-on-Briercliffe-yob.3242683.jp
TORBAY: Asbo boss leaves after six weeks
Asbo boss leaves after six weeks
The council has promised swift action against offenders
A man appointed to lead a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in a Devon town has left after six weeks in the post.
A man appointed to lead a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in a Devon town has left after six weeks in the post.
Carver Tedstone was Torbay's first anti-social behaviour officer.
He joined Safer Communities Torbay as part of its Anti-Social Behaviour Team which consists of a case manager and a case worker.
The council said his work, which was to gather evidence and see cases through to court, would be taken over by local police officers.
Asbo 'hotline'
The council declined to comment on why he left and whether he would be replaced.
A phone "hotline" for reporting anti-social behaviour has just been launched by the local authority.
But some local people say that what the area really needs is more police to tackle the gangs.
Chip shop owner Dave Comer of the Foxole estate, said gangs were intimidating customers, burning fences and smashing windows. 
It is very difficult to get the police here and you just give up in the end 
Dave Comer
He said: "The basic problem is the lack of police.
"It is very difficult to get the police here and you just give up in the end."
At a meeting of local people at the Queen Elizabeth Drive Community Centre, a gang of youths forced down a metal security shutter and threw missiles against the windows before police intervened.
Inspector Mel Broad, neighbourhood and partnership officer for Torbay said: "We do have periods on a Friday and Saturday evening where our resources are stretched because we do suffer levels of anti-social behaviour across the estate.
"We have to prioritise calls as they come in."
Councillor Martyn Hodge, cabinet member for community safety, promised "swift action" on complaints.
He said: "We are determined to do everything we can to tackle the problem both promptly and effectively."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/7017766.stmCALNE/WILTS: Anti-social behaviour order extended
Anti-social behaviour order extended
POLICE in Calne have extended an anti-social behaviour order which is proving succesful in cracking down on crime.
The order, which covers the Pippin area of Calne, will be extended for a further six months from October 2, when the current order expires.Wiltshire Police said the extension was to build on the success of the dispersal order, introduced following a series of incidents including vandalism and underage drinking.
Inspector Gavin Williams said: "The success of the dispersal order to support the progress that has been made to date.
"I am confident that we can further impact on any anti-social behaviour and improvethe quality of life for the residents and visitors to Calne.."As I have said previously, the anti-social behaviour that has been tackled, has been largely due to the actions of a minority of individuals in the area. We will continue to robustly police these individuals."
http://www.wiltshiretimes.co.uk/news/latestheadlines/display.var.1721946.0.antisocial_behaviour_order_extended.php
NORWICH: Families' victory in battle to get CCTV
Families' victory in battle to get CCTV
Families fed up with their community being ruined by anti-social behaviour have been handed a boost - their area is in line to get CCTV cameras to help catch yobs and troublemakers.
A petition of more than 350 signatures was handed in to Norwich City Council this week calling for cameras to be provided in Clover Hill.
Councillors have agreed there was a problem and acknowledged the area should be one of the top on the list when the next round of money is spent on new cameras.
Labour councillor Brenda Ferris, initiated the petition after Bowthorpe shopkeepers went to her for advice about increasing anti-social behaviour in the area.
She said: “I went to the community safety panel and discussed it with other councillors and we wanted to put pressure on the council to get some cameras for Clover Hill.”
Mr Little, Conservative leader on the city council and ward member for Bowthorpe, presented the petition at the full council meeting last night.
He said: “There has been a great response from local people and, with the support of local councillors and the police, Clover Hill must be first in line when new CCTV funding is announced.”
Mr Little said problems included vandalism of shops, abusive behaviour, shoplifting and a number of violent attacks.
He added: “These are attacks that could, maybe, have been avoided if security and lighting were better. We need to be proactive in our response to this. If CCTV were strategically placed with the centre it could provide the police with the evidence they require, local people with a sense of safety and a reason for people to use this once bustling centre.”
However, while in favour of the petition, Labour councillor Bert Bremner, executive member for community safety and community cohesion, said the council must ensure it could afford the cameras.
The move fits in with the Evening News' Reclaim Our Communities campaign, which was backed by former prime minister Tony Blair and calls on communities to join forces to combat anti-social behaviour. The council is still putting the finishing touches to a scheme which will see talking CCTV cameras installed in Eaton Park.
http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/content/news/story.aspx?brand=ENOnline&category=News&tBrand=ENOnline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED28%20Sep%202007%2009%3A18%3A57%3A767
Families fed up with their community being ruined by anti-social behaviour have been handed a boost - their area is in line to get CCTV cameras to help catch yobs and troublemakers.
A petition of more than 350 signatures was handed in to Norwich City Council this week calling for cameras to be provided in Clover Hill.
Councillors have agreed there was a problem and acknowledged the area should be one of the top on the list when the next round of money is spent on new cameras.
Labour councillor Brenda Ferris, initiated the petition after Bowthorpe shopkeepers went to her for advice about increasing anti-social behaviour in the area.
She said: “I went to the community safety panel and discussed it with other councillors and we wanted to put pressure on the council to get some cameras for Clover Hill.”
Mr Little, Conservative leader on the city council and ward member for Bowthorpe, presented the petition at the full council meeting last night.
He said: “There has been a great response from local people and, with the support of local councillors and the police, Clover Hill must be first in line when new CCTV funding is announced.”
Mr Little said problems included vandalism of shops, abusive behaviour, shoplifting and a number of violent attacks.
He added: “These are attacks that could, maybe, have been avoided if security and lighting were better. We need to be proactive in our response to this. If CCTV were strategically placed with the centre it could provide the police with the evidence they require, local people with a sense of safety and a reason for people to use this once bustling centre.”
However, while in favour of the petition, Labour councillor Bert Bremner, executive member for community safety and community cohesion, said the council must ensure it could afford the cameras.
The move fits in with the Evening News' Reclaim Our Communities campaign, which was backed by former prime minister Tony Blair and calls on communities to join forces to combat anti-social behaviour. The council is still putting the finishing touches to a scheme which will see talking CCTV cameras installed in Eaton Park.
http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/content/news/story.aspx?brand=ENOnline&category=News&tBrand=ENOnline&tCategory=news&itemid=NOED28%20Sep%202007%2009%3A18%3A57%3A767
LANCASTER: Nuisance 20-year-old banned from Ridge
Nuisance 20-year-old banned from Ridge
John Goulding
A 20-YEAR-OLD Lancaster man has been banned from the majority of the city's Ridge Estate after being handed a three-year Anti-Social Beha-viour Order (ASBO) by Lancaster magistrates.
John Goulding (pictured) is only allowed to travel to and from his home address of Ridge Square from Ambleside Road after the order was made.
Goulding was also placed on a six-month curfew banning him from being outside in a public place between 11pm and 5am.
The order against Goulding was taken out by PC Tristan Heaword who said Goulding came to his attention while he was working as a Community Beat Manager on the Bulk ward. He said local residents were at their "wits' end" because of Goulding's anti-social behaviour.
PC Heaword said: "Goulding is a great nuisance to the community and is causing locals a lot of distress and appears to have no regard of property or who he offends. Goulding is a persistent offender with the majority of the anti-social behaviour offences being committed around the Ridge Estate and it is apparent these offences are escalating in gravity and frequency. The ASBO is necessary and essential to address his anti-social behaviour, which causes alarm, harassment and distress on a regular basis."
One resident, who did not wish to be named, gave police a statement saying: "I live in constant worry of him and am worried sick about what he will do next.
"He is ruining people's lives and I hope that something can be done to stop him."
Goulding is banned from possessing any open container of alcohol in a public place and associating with Dean Halliwell, Damien Blackwood, Robert Donnelly, Christopher Stone-banks and Sean Corless in any public place.
http://www.thevisitor.co.uk/morecambe-news/Nuisance-20yearold-banned-from-Ridge.3242033.jp
Goulding was also placed on a six-month curfew banning him from being outside in a public place between 11pm and 5am.
The order against Goulding was taken out by PC Tristan Heaword who said Goulding came to his attention while he was working as a Community Beat Manager on the Bulk ward. He said local residents were at their "wits' end" because of Goulding's anti-social behaviour.
PC Heaword said: "Goulding is a great nuisance to the community and is causing locals a lot of distress and appears to have no regard of property or who he offends. Goulding is a persistent offender with the majority of the anti-social behaviour offences being committed around the Ridge Estate and it is apparent these offences are escalating in gravity and frequency. The ASBO is necessary and essential to address his anti-social behaviour, which causes alarm, harassment and distress on a regular basis."
One resident, who did not wish to be named, gave police a statement saying: "I live in constant worry of him and am worried sick about what he will do next.
"He is ruining people's lives and I hope that something can be done to stop him."
Goulding is banned from possessing any open container of alcohol in a public place and associating with Dean Halliwell, Damien Blackwood, Robert Donnelly, Christopher Stone-banks and Sean Corless in any public place.
http://www.thevisitor.co.uk/morecambe-news/Nuisance-20yearold-banned-from-Ridge.3242033.jp
PRESTON PANS: United force against yobs
United force against yobs
POLICE are winning the war on crime in Prestonpans – with the latest reported crime figures falling for the second month in a row.
And in the wake of that success, attention is now focused on the joint bid by East Lothian Council and police to stamp out anti-social behaviour in the town.
Only 31 crimes were recorded by police from August 15 to September 11, down 16 from the previous month, with 15 of them solved.
Police received a total of 282 calls relating to criminal activity during that period, compared to 258 from July 15 to August 14.
Youth complaints also rose one per cent during the last month, with 73 of the 282 calls relating to youth disturbances.
There were five crimes of dishonesty, including thefts, compared to nine the previous month. And no domestic house break-ins were recorded for the second time.
Four assaults and 11 calls relating to vandalism were also recorded, both up on the previous month.
There has been a dramatic reduction in the number of calls to the Hawthorn Road area over the last two months with only six visits made there.
The Inchview/Redburn areas received 16 calls and Preston Terrace/Crescent received 15 calls.
Sergeant Neil Valentine said that a problem solving partnership on anti-social behaviour between the council and police was on-going in the Prestonpans area.
He told Prestonpans community councillors at their recent meeting: “There is a police operation at the moment with high visibility and plain clothes officers.
“We have a list of 22 names of troublemakers whose parents have been written to explaining the anti-social behaviour laws.
“Three have already been implicated under the council’s policy and police have visited these homes and they will be dealt with robustly.
“We have had great support from Kenny Black (East Lothian Council’s anti-social behaviour co-ordinator).”
Mr Black also believes anti-social behaviour has caused “alarming distress” to residents in Prestonpans.
He said: “There is still a lot of work to get done, but we have written to the areas most affected and the local community is behind us and they can help us reduce the problem.
“This is a co-ordinated approach.
“There has been a significant increase in police presence over the last couple of weeks.
“Anti-social behaviour has caused alarming distress and a number of people have come forward to complain.”
Sgt Valentine also revealed that police were considering the hire or lease of CCTV vans to help curb the problem.
Prestonpans Councillor Willie Innes welcomed the “positive” report and said that improved communication between police and residents raised confidence in the community.
“It does take time to stamp out this type of behaviour but this report is very encouraging,” he added.
“Once youngsters realise that there is a penalty at the end of it then they might think twice about committing offences.”
http://www.eastlothiancourier.com/article.php?sec=1&id=15682Fife: Still near top when it comes to issuing Asbos
Fife still near top when it comes to issuing Asbos
ALMOST 30 anti-social behaviour orders were handed out in Fife last year – putting the Kingdom in the top five highest Asbo issuing local authorities in Scotland.
In 2005-6, Fife Council applied for 27, up from 20 in the previous year.
However, the local authority believes the number of Asbos issued in the Kingdom has levelled out since they were introduced in 1999.
Housing investigations officer Fiona Alder believes these orders are an effective way of cutting down on anti-social behaviour.
She said: "We use Asbos as part of our wider anti-social behaviour strategy and they are only used in specific cases where we believe they will be effective.
"When they were first introduced, Fife started using them right away and our numbers were very high but they have levelled out.
"It is very hard to generalise about what situations they are used in because every case is different. However, we can use them to prevent people carrying out certain behaviour, for example playing loud music, or to stop people from going to certain places, say where they were causing trouble."
Fife also had a low number of breached Asbos in 2005-6, with only five per cent recorded in the Kingdom.
Ms Alder said recording this is very hard, as it becomes a police matter when Asbos are breached.
The figures were released by the Scottish Government and revealed the number of Asbos doubled across Scotland in the past three years, with activity concentrating on a small number of local authorities.
North Lanarkshire issued the most Asbos in Scotland, with 47 applications in 2005-6.
Minister for Community Safety Fergus Ewing believes the figures will help inform the Scottish Government's review of approaches to tackling anti-social behaviour.
He said: "The results also revealed many local authorities adopting different approaches which involved considerably less use of Asbos.
"On their own, Asbos can't solve the deep-seated problems which have fuelled much of the lawlessness in too many of our communities and which the Scottish Government is determined to tackle for the long-term."
http://www.fifetoday.co.uk/fife-free-press-news/Fife-still-near-top-when.3235878.jp
However, the local authority believes the number of Asbos issued in the Kingdom has levelled out since they were introduced in 1999.
Housing investigations officer Fiona Alder believes these orders are an effective way of cutting down on anti-social behaviour.
She said: "We use Asbos as part of our wider anti-social behaviour strategy and they are only used in specific cases where we believe they will be effective.
"When they were first introduced, Fife started using them right away and our numbers were very high but they have levelled out.
"It is very hard to generalise about what situations they are used in because every case is different. However, we can use them to prevent people carrying out certain behaviour, for example playing loud music, or to stop people from going to certain places, say where they were causing trouble."
Fife also had a low number of breached Asbos in 2005-6, with only five per cent recorded in the Kingdom.
Ms Alder said recording this is very hard, as it becomes a police matter when Asbos are breached.
The figures were released by the Scottish Government and revealed the number of Asbos doubled across Scotland in the past three years, with activity concentrating on a small number of local authorities.
North Lanarkshire issued the most Asbos in Scotland, with 47 applications in 2005-6.
Minister for Community Safety Fergus Ewing believes the figures will help inform the Scottish Government's review of approaches to tackling anti-social behaviour.
He said: "The results also revealed many local authorities adopting different approaches which involved considerably less use of Asbos.
"On their own, Asbos can't solve the deep-seated problems which have fuelled much of the lawlessness in too many of our communities and which the Scottish Government is determined to tackle for the long-term."
http://www.fifetoday.co.uk/fife-free-press-news/Fife-still-near-top-when.3235878.jp
ALSAGER: Police target anti-social behaviour
Police target anti-social behaviour
POLICE are targeting anti-social behaviour in Alsager through a series of measures.
Inspector Mark Gammage told Alsager Town Council that Police Community Support Officers were policing Milton Park on Friday evenings.
They were also seizing vehicles used in conjunction with anti-social behaviour, he said, and enforcing parking regulations.
The officers had a drop-in surgery at Alsager Library, he added, and were working closely with Alsager School student support officers and MMU students.
A new PC had been appointed for Alsager, he said, together with three PCSOs.
http://www.congletonguardian.co.uk/news/congletonnews/display.var.1712526.0.police_target_antisocial_behaviour.phpANDOVER: Acre path residents' misery
Acre path residents' misery
RESIDENTS of Andover's Acre Path are so annoyed about anti-social behaviour and vandalism they have formed a residents association.
At a meeting of Andover Councillors' Forum a member of the public said one householder had even erected his own CCTV system to monitor the problems, which include incidents of criminal damage as well as rowdy behaviour.
Residents were going up the wall,' he said.
Acting Andover police inspector Matt Reeves said residents must continue to report incidents to the police as it enabled them to identify trouble hotspots which resulted in extra patrols.
Acre Path had been identified as a hotspot and benefited from additional patrols, said the officer.
"It is encouraging that residents are getting involved," he said.
"Patrols have been encouraged to pass through the area.
"I have been on patrol there myself and seized alcohol."
http://www.andoveradvertiser.co.uk/news/news/display.var.1701720.0.acre_path_residents_misery.phpASBOs for pair who terrorised vulnerable housing tenants
ASBOs for pair who terrorised vulnerable housing tenants
Patrick O'Donoghue and
Michelle Wright terrorised
vulnerable housing tenant
A man and a woman who terrorised vulnerable housing tenants have been given three-year anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs).
Patrick Joseph (PJ) O'Donoghue, 23, and Michelle Wright, 19, targeted and befriended susceptible housing tenants and proceeded to take over their properties for the purpose of underage sex, drinking, drug taking and parties, North Avon Magistrates' Court heard.
A six-month anti-social behaviour injunction was obtained by Merlin Housing Society against Wright on March 19, which Wright breached on several occasions.
The ASBOs prohibit O'Donoghue and Wright from:
- Having contact in public, whether being in a group or otherwise associating with each other in the area of Patchway.
- Entering or attempting to enter the areas of The Parade, Coniston Road, Patchway and Berkley Court, Longney Place, Patchway (Wright only).
- Entering or attempting to enter the area of Coniston Road, but access is allowed to the Labour Club in Patchway via a designated pathway (O'Donoghue only)
- Entering the area of Berkley Court, Longney Place, Patchway (Wright only).
Philippa Isbell, from Safer South Gloucestershire's anti-social behaviour team, said: "Following these breaches, we worked closely with the police, Merlin Housing Society and Western Challenge Housing Association to take positive steps to end the systematic intimidation and control exerted by this pair.
"In four separate cases, the victims have asked O'Donoghue and Wright to stop visiting their property and the two have forced entry.
"This had led victims to flee and seek temporary accommodation, causing them untold anxiety, health and housing problems.
"The actions of these individuals have had a devastating effect on the Patchway residents they have victimised and their neighbours.
"I am confident that the ASBOs will protect other potential victims and the wider Patchway community."
Sonia Key, anti-social behaviour manager for Merlin Housing Society, said: "This sort of behaviour ruins lives and communities.
"We want our residents to understand that we will not tolerate it and that we will support them in every way possible to ensure that the perpetrators of anti-social behaviour are brought to justice.
If O'Donoghue or Wright breach their ASBOs, they will be liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment, a fine or both.
Neighbourhood Inspector Simon Ellis, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "The ASBOs which have been put in place for O'Donoghue and Wright mean they will be deterred from targeting vulnerable Patchway residents and creating intolerable living conditions for them and their neighbours.
"The police and our partners in Safer South Gloucestershire hope the ASBOs will give residents greater peace of mind.
"They can be assured that we will take every step to enforce the orders and to deal effectively with any other offences of this nature."
Please contact the police in confidence on 0845 456 7000 to report any incidents or problems.
http://www.24dash.com/socialhousing/27905.htm
LOUGHBOROUGH: Leaflet drop over banned couple
Leaflet drop over banned couple
The two women are banned from
seven areas in Charnwood
A council is sending leaflets to thousands of homes in Leicestershire to try to prevent two women breaking an anti-social behaviour injunction.
seven areas in Charnwood
A council is sending leaflets to thousands of homes in Leicestershire to try to prevent two women breaking an anti-social behaviour injunction.
Donna Allen and Sabrina Bullard, both of no fixed abode, are banned from Loughborough and six surrounding villages until 20 July 2008.
Charnwood Borough Council is asking residents to get in touch if they see the pair in the excluded areas.
The women were given an anti-social behaviour injunction on 24 January.
Crack house
Leaflets include photographs of Allen and Bullard and inform residents of the areas they are excluded from, which include Shepshed, Quorn, Mountsorrel, Syston, Barrow upon Soar and Sileby.
On 25 January, a crack house closure notice was served on their former council house on Freehold Street, shutting it for three months.
They were also forbidden from possessing any controlled drug within Leicestershire or the city of Leicester.
Clare Holford, of the borough council, said: "The purpose of the leaflets is two-fold. Primarily it's to ensure that Sabrina and Donna are not within the excluded areas and to ask the community to help us ensure that they're not within those areas.
"The second reason for the leaflet is to show local communities that we are serious about combating anti-social behaviour and to give a warning to people who may cause us problems with anti-social behaviour in the area."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/leicestershire/7010199.stmINVERCLYDE: Asbos on the rise
Asbos on the rise
INVERCLYDE has come fifth in a national league table of asbo shame.
INVERCLYDE has come fifth in a national league table of asbo shame.
Figures released by the Scottish Government reveal the number of households hit with the orders has rocketed in the past three years.
There were nine asbos handed out in total during 2005 to 2006, compared with none in 2003 to 2004.
But taken as a proportion of the population, the figure translated to 24 asbos per 100,000 Inverclyde households — with just four local authorities recording a higher rate.
Inverclyde Council said 10 asbos were granted during 2006 to 2007, and so far for the current year, four have been given out.
None of the asbos the local authority has applied for have been refused since an anti-social investigation team was formed in 2004.
Inspector Stephen Olej said: “It’s a big plus in Inverclyde that the council and the police have got together and come up with an anti-social behaviour team with sergeants, constables and street wardens.
“They work together and they’re out there taking positive action. The results they’ve had are very encouraging.
“But it’s still too early to say whether the rise in figures is down to increasing anti-social behaviour or down to better enforcement.
“There is a hardcore of individuals who regard them as a badge of honour.”
A spokesperson for Inverclyde Council said: “Since our anti-social behavior service was established in 2004, we’ve made very effective use of all the legislative tools available to us.
“Our greatest success is that, of more than 700 cases, only a handful have not been resolved by informal means, including mediation and acceptable behaviour contracts.”
http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/article.php?sec=1&id=15553
SCOTLAND: Keeping up fight against anti-social behaviour
Keeping up fight against anti-social behaviour
THE Scottish Government continues its fight against anti-social behaviour this week with the introduction of on-the-spot fines.
Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) will give police officers the power to issue instant £40 fines for lower-level offences such as breaches of the peace, and drinking in public where it is banned, such as it is in Fraserburgh.
Following a successful pilot by Tayside Police, FPNs have been adopted by Scotland's other police forces over the past six months, and if unpaid and unchallenged within 28 days, the penalty automatically increases to £60. Evidence from the pilot in Tayside also suggests that these penalties will deter most perpetrators from committing similar misdemeanours in future.
These measures are part of a raft of policies to make our streets safer and instill confidence among the public. It is important that our police officers have the power to take the action necessary, but also that they have a visible presence on the street. The use of FPNs will be rolled out across the country as we review each step of its implementation. Officers across Scotland will have the ability to take fast and visible action against lower-level offences, while being able to spend more time where the public want them – patrolling our streets.
http://www.banffshire-journal.co.uk/news/fullstory.php/aid/1829/Keeping_up_fight_against_anti-social_behaviour.htmlCOCKERMOUTH: Police to tackle young yobs
Police to tackle young yobs
A CLAMP-DOWN on youth disorder will take place in Cockermouth over the coming weeks.
Police said they will be taking a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour, fuelled by alcohol and mainly from youngsters visiting the town.
Inspector Martin Connolly said: “Anti-social behaviour has been highlighted as one of the main concerns of residents.
“There has been a trend for youths from surrounding towns to come to Cockermouth during the early evening, indulge in binge drinking and then cause disorder and damage.
“This is not acceptable and the people in Cockermouth are tired of being disturbed, threatened and abused.
“I want to people that we will be taking action against binge drinkers and anti-social people that refuse to take responsibility for themselves.”
High visibility patrols will be in hotspot areas including Brewery Lane, High Sands Lane, Waterloo Street, around Wakefield Road car park and the Memorial Gardens, where large groups often gather.
Police will also make full use of new banning powers, which came into force last month, that give officers the power to ban anyone 16 or older from anywhere for a period of 48 hours if they are found to be drunk or consuming alcohol in a public place and police suspect that anti-social behaviour is likely to take place.
Insp Connolly added: “Many youths make valuable contributions to the local community; however there is a minority who are determined to cause trouble.
"I need the assistance of all parents in the area to make sure they know what their children are doing and where, otherwise they may get a surprise when the police knock on their door. They need to take some responsibility for their children’s actions.”
http://www.timesandstar.co.uk/unknown/viewarticle.aspx?id=547839
One chilling second to decide: Would you be a have-a-go hero?
One chilling second to decide: Would you be a have-a-go hero?
Hilary Freeman
King's Cross Station in London, late one Sunday evening. I am standing in the taxi queue when ugly cries break the silence. "Oi, yiddo!" they shout. "Stupid fat Jew!"
Three young, inebriated thugs have decided it would be amusing to abuse a group of Orthodox Jews at the front of the queue.
When their victims don't react to the name-calling, the yobs get physical, grabbing the men's hats from their heads, pulling their beards and long, curled sideburns. All the while, they are laughing and shouting anti-Semitic obscenities.
Appalled, I try to make eye contact with the other people standing in line with me, but they appear to find their own shoes fascinating. I know it has to be me who puts a stop to this.
I walk to the front of the queue and position myself between the bullies and the Jewish men. "Leave them alone," I say, as loudly as I can.
My heart is pounding but I don't feel afraid - I feel angry. The fact that these thugs might have knives doesn't even occur to me, or that they might just be itching for an excuse to attack someone.
I'm not sure what I expect to happen, but they let go of their victims. I think the fact that I'm a 5ft 3in woman, and I've dared to challenge them, has disarmed them.
"Why are you standing up for them?" one of the yobs asks. "Because I'm Jewish," I reply.
"No, you're not,2 he says, staring at my jeans and leather jacket. "You don't look like them." He laughs and runs off with his friends.
Ironically, this incident occurred when I was on my way home from visiting my grandmother in Leeds.
Both she and my late grandfather were German refugees who fled to Britain in the Thirties to escape the Nazis. Many family members didn't survive the Holocaust.
I've been brought up with a hatred of intolerance and an understanding of the vital importance of speaking up for the persecuted.
It's not about being Jewish - I would have done the same if it had been Sikhs or Muslims being abused in that queue.
The men I helped escaped into a taxi. They didn't thank me; they didn't even acknowledge me.
But I know I did the right thing - and I'd do it again. I didn't step in because I was brave or foolhardy. I stepped in because I had an obligation to, because I don't want to live in a world where people don't intervene or look out for one another.
Because next time it could be me. Or you. And who will stand up for us?
Read more...
James Delingpole
It all happened so quickly I didn't even have to time to think, let alone feel scared. One second I was sauntering through my kitchen on my way to make a cup of tea, wondering what that strange man was doing in my garden. The next I was through the French windows and giving chase across the lawn.
There was no conscious decision involved. But I suppose it had to do with the spate of daytime burglaries in my area of South-East London last year, which had been worrying my wife and kids and infuriating me.
My subconscious must have twigged that this was the man responsible, and instead of ringing the police, I told myself: "Enough is enough!"
As I ran out, a wheezing young policeman tried to clamber over my garden fence in pursuit of the same man. "Stop him!" he said.
It's funny how the mind works, but I remember thinking: "That's odd. I thought policemen weren't allowed to encourage members of the public to chase criminals." But I was glad he did. It spurred me on.
I caught up with the burglar just as he was escaping into the next garden. He was amazingly swift and agile, but I still could have had him in my grasp if he hadn't turned round and done the most extraordinary thing.
As I grabbed him, he looked me right in the eye and said in a calm, friendly voice: "Here, mate. What are you doing?" And I thought: "Cripes. How embarrassing. I'm about to apprehend a plain clothes policeman." Cunning villain. In that split second he made his escape - only to be caught by police later, hiding in the bushes.
Some people said to me afterwards: "What if he'd had a knife?" And it's true, I suppose, that this 60 seconds of quite unexpected drama could have left my children fatherless.
But it wouldn't stop me doing it again - not because I'm brave, definitely not because I'm a hero, but because it seems to me that the way you react on these occasions is in fact completely arbitrary.
But I'm glad I did it - if everyone looks the other way, the villains will win, won't they?
Frances Hubbard
Last year, I was on my way home to South London from work at about 8pm on a half-empty train when two teenagers slammed aggressively into our carriage through the connecting doors.
I knew immediately that there was going to be some kind of trouble, and I moved my credit cards to my pockets in case they were planning to "steam" down the aisle snatching bags.
Instead, they turned their attention to two boys who'd been sitting quietly further along the train. I couldn't hear exactly what was said, but one of the boys answered back and within seconds he was being viciously beaten and whipped around the head with his attackers' studded leather belts.
I remember feeling literally sick with fear at the ferocity of those punches. The violence was like an assault on the whole carriage. People froze in their seats and their faces were blank with shock.
I stood up to reach the emergency stop cord but it was too close to where they were fighting and so, like everyone else, I did nothing to help. Less than a minute later, the doors opened at the next station and the teenagers ran out.
I can rationalise my paralysis by saying that, as a woman, I wasn't strong enough to pull them apart, but actually I wasn't brave enough. Perhaps if the victim had been another woman, the two sides less well matched, I would have intervened. Who knows?
Afterwards, I felt tearful, powerless, ashamed of myself and unfairly angry with the male commuterswho'd been equally useless. At least I helped find an official to attend to the injured boy and gave my name as a witness, but that was only after the danger had passed.
The case went to youth court almost a year later, but though the victim and I turned up, the defendants didn't. I never heard any more. I assume they must have changed their pleas to guilty.
And if it happened again? I doubt I'd be any more impressive. The sad fact is that if you value your own life, the wisest action these days is to hide behind your newspaper.
Richard Price
When I moved my family away from the grime and crime of South London to Surrey's leafy stockbroker belt last year, I thought yobs would be a thing of the past. How wrong I was.
Last summer, when my daughter was less than a month old, a stream of vile language came pouring through our living room window one Saturday afternoon.
Looking out, I saw a young, shaven-headed man, no older than 21, stripped to the waist and screaming threats at the top of his voice as he stood in the middle of the road, forcing cars to swerve past him.
I immediately recognised him as the (apparently unemployed) partner of a teenage mother who rented a pretty cottage across the road.
Fuelled by the overwhelming protective urge of a new father, I marched out to confront him. It was only when I was within spitting distance of him that I realised, with a surge of dread, that blood was pouring from a wound next to the tattoo on his right bicep.
And clutched in his white-knuckled hand was a nine-inch kitchen knife.
Changing direction in midstride, I walked briskly past him, barely brushing his shoulder as I did so. He turned, stared, and resumed his stream of invective. I didn't fight. I walked 50 yards up the road and called the police on my mobile.
To their credit, the response was swift. Within minutes three squad cars, two vans and a police motorcycle screeched to a halt outside my house, sirens blaring.
As they took him away in handcuffs, the emotion of the near-miss suddenly swamped me. How close had I come to being stabbed because of a stupid, macho surge of adrenaline? What use is a dead father? And isn't anywhere safe in this godforsaken country?
By now a group of the yob's friends - also shirtless and shorn - were milling about in the road, muttering darkly about the situation being a "domestic" and "nobody else's ****ing business".
Their friend, an arresting officer later told me, had been arguing with his girlfriend and stormed out into the street after things "got out of hand".
I was given a stern ticking-off by the police for even thinking of defending my family and ordered to "keep my head down" in future.
The yob? He was back home the next day. We moved house six months later.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=484392&in_page_id=1770
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