Dispersal order in place following reports of anti-social behaviour in Hatch Warren

A dispersal order is in place this weekend following recent reports of youth-related anti-social behaviour in the Hatch Warren area of Basingstoke.

An order under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 has been authorised to cover the area pictured on the map from 5pm today (Friday 11 July) until 7am on Sunday 13 July.

The area covers Hatch Warren and parts of Beggarwood and Brighton Hill.

It follows reports of anti-social behaviour involving large groups of young people on the playing fields near the Hatch Warren Community Centre on the previous two Fridays.

On Friday 4 July, officers were called to a report that a members of a large group of young people were drinking underage and being aggressive towards council employees.

Officers attended and the group dispersed.

The order enables officers to deal with any issues of ASB in a directed area more effectively. It gives police the power to order a person to leave the area with no return within the specified period.

Those who refuse to comply with the order are committing a criminal offence and are liable to arrest.

Children between the ages of 10 and 16 who are issued with dispersal notices will be taken home to their parents/guardians, and officers will carry out follow-up work.

Officers will be out patrolling throughout the weekend, and anyone who has concerns is asked to speak to them or call 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Acting Sergeant Christian Geldard, from Basingstoke’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We take reports like these seriously because anti-social behaviour has a detrimental effect on residents and businesses.

“We understand that people will want to enjoy the warmer weather and longer evenings, but we won’t tolerate when this results in anti-social behaviour or violence.”

ENDS