NO PARK REFUGE FOR BOOZE YOBS
Police have new powers to tackle boozy youngsters in Plymouth's parks.
The 'Directions to Leave' power - which has come about from the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 - allows officer to order anyone over 16 to leave a designated area and stop them from returning if it's believed they are likely to cause or contribute to alcohol-related crime and disorder.
Police can order eager-to-brawl yobs away from pubs and clubs for 24 hours - or risk arrest for breaching the order.
Chief Supt Jim Webster has agreed to use the power in the main night-time economy areas of Mutley Plain, North Hill, the Barbican, Barbican leisure park, Union Street and Derry's Cross.
However, in a move which will delight many residents, Plymouth has become one of 22 areas across the country which the Home Office has asked to pilot an additional power.
As of Monday and through until November 5, an officer will be able to "impact on those public areas where alcohol consumption and disorder have been causing a nuisance to residents."
Sergeant Martin Worthington of Plymouth Licensing Department, said: "There are several parks and other public spaces where alcohol and disorder have been causing problems for residents.
"A police officer can now turn up and direct everyone to leave. Those failing to do so or returning within the prohibited time period commit an offence."
He urged residents who suffered from under-age drinkers to let their neighbourhood team know of the problem.
He said: "Used in conjunction with other powers, including the dispersal order powers, this new legislation has the potential to reduce alcohol-related crime and fear of crime in the evening and night time economy and residential areas. It is not a panacea, but it is an additional tool in the appropriate circumstances and we will use it proportionately."
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