Merseyside Police have introduced a dispersal zone in part of Kirkby following reports of youths throwing stones at cars and eggs at a shop. The zone covers the roads, houses and flats within Roughwood Drive, Jarrett Road and Gilescroft Avenue.
The order began at 3.15pm today and will remain in place until 3.15pm tomorrow, when it will be reviewed and extended if necessary. Officers will provide a visible presence in the area to deal with any incidents.
Powers under Section 35
The dispersal zones have been introduced under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour and Policing Act 2014. This gives police officers the power to direct people to leave the area if they are engaging in anti-social behaviour, or are likely to become involved in such incidents, and not return for up to 48 hours. Officers also have the power to seize items used for anti-social behaviour.
If a person who has previously been asked to leave returns to the area, an offence would be committed and they might be arrested.
Increase in youth-related incidents
Neighbourhood Inspector Alec Cartledge said: “Unfortunately we have seen an increase in youth-related anti-social behaviour in the last couple of days. Reports include youths throwing stones at motorists and stopping traffic, throwing eggs at a shop and intimidating behaviour.
“We have increased patrols in the area which is in addition to our dedicated neighbourhood police officers and they will deal with any issues and prevent offences from taking place.
“This dispersal zone along with other measures is to prevent youths gathering and causing unnecessary distress and intimidation to people who want to go about their business without fear or harm.
“Putting such proactive measures in place is not only to stop the minority of youths causing unnecessary distress to residents in the area, but also for their own safety and welfare.
“I urge parents to speak to your child about acceptable conduct, what they are up to and check the friends they are with.
"No parent wants a knock on their door from a police officer informing them that their child has been arrested or been involved in a serious accident.
“If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”
How to report incidents
Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.
Information can also be reported via the Merseyside Police social media desk on X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’, or through the website at Report a crime | Merseyside Police. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their website.
