WEST SUFFOLK: Yobs crackdown sparks fines and arrests

Yobs crackdown sparks fines and arrests

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POLICE have fined more than 100 yobs and arrested more than 30 people for violent crimes in the first two months of an initiative to tackle late-night rowdiness.

Supt Jon Brighton, who is leading Operation Staysafe in west Suffolk, said the crackdown aimed to ensure the area's town centres were safe and friendly places to enjoy a night out.

The police chief said the initiative - particularly in trouble hotspots like Newmarket and Bury St Edmunds town centres - had already brought big rewards.

“This summer town centres across the country are being branded by some as no-go areas - certainly here they are quite the opposite,” he said.

“The majority of people do want to enjoy a safe night out, and it is those intent on causing trouble who will find a problem. This type of behaviour affects the enjoyment of others and can trigger more serious offences.

“We hope that the extra patrols and their positive action against alcohol-related anti-social behaviour will reassure people, as well as making them consider their behaviour and the impact it could have on themselves and others.”

During the first eight weeks of the Staysafe campaign, covering May and June, 112 £80 fixed penalty notices were issued for public order offences.

In addition, 34 people were arrested on suspicion of committing violence in a public place, with 31 of those now charged with an offence.

However, Supt Brighton stressed: “These figures only add up to a handful of people per town centre per night - the majority want a safe, trouble-free night out, and our early intervention is helping to achieve that.

“We have seen a slight decrease in the level of serious violence in a public place in the west since April.”

The campaign is continuing throughout the summer.