EXTRA police powers in a town centre have substantially helped cut crime and anti-social behaviour, officers claim. In the six months to March that a dispersal order was in place in Hitchin, reports of crime fell by 40 per cent and anti-social behaviour
EXTRA police powers in a town centre have substantially helped cut crime and anti-social behaviour, officers claim.
In the six months to March that a dispersal order was in place in Hitchin, reports of crime fell by 40 per cent and anti-social behaviour by 52 per cent.
The order, issued by North Herts District Council, enabled officers to move on trouble makers and arrest them if they return. It expired on March 28, but will take effect for another six months from Monday after officers consulted with the local authority and businesses.
Safer neighbourhoods inspector Simon Tabert said: "Other factors such as the impact of town centre rangers and the partnership between North Herts District Council and local businesses have undoubtedly played a part. But the evidence is compelling that the order has significantly improved the quality of life in Hitchin.
"It has provided police with an additional option to deal with incidents of unruly behaviour in the town and local residents and businesses have asked us to repeat this for another six months.
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