GMP hail success of dispersal order in stopping antisocial behaviour

Greater Manchester Police have reflected on a successful dispersal order after it helped address community concerns about young people congregating and behaving in a disorderly and violent manner.
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The dispersal order was in place in Westhoughton between 6pm on Friday 26 February 2021 until 4am on Sunday 28 February 2021, and gave officers the powers to ask anyone to leave the area and not return.

Officers conducted regular patrols around Westhoughton - particular in the town centre - to provide high visibility reassurance.

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Neighbourhood Beat Officers, along with colleagues from GMP's Special Constabulary and outreach workers from Bolton Council, engaged with young people and spent time explaining to them how a dispersal order works.

GMP imposed a dispersal order in Westhoughton to move on young people who were behaving in a disorderly and violent mannerGMP imposed a dispersal order in Westhoughton to move on young people who were behaving in a disorderly and violent manner
GMP imposed a dispersal order in Westhoughton to move on young people who were behaving in a disorderly and violent manner

Chief Inspector Mike Russell, from GMP's Bolton district, said: “From the feedback we've been given, the weekend's dispersal order was well received by residents, who believe it had a positive effect.

"Overall the dispersal order was well respected, which is incredibly pleasing. However, if we receive intelligence which suggests further incidents are taking place; we won't hesitate to implement dispersal orders again.

"Dispersal orders are just one part of our overarching response to support the community; we will soon be announcing the launch of a dedicated operation to help tackle anti-social behaviour across Bolton.

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"We are committed to tackling issues which are important to our communities, and we will continue to target any groups that are involved in this type of behaviour which is causing distress and upset.

“I would encourage parents and carers to play their part by remaining aware of their children’s whereabouts and knowing who they are out with.

"Finally, I would once again like to thank the residents of Westhoughton for their continued support."

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