4th August 2010

DORCHESTER: Police crack down on anti-social behaviour

by Paul Crompton

EXTRA police officers are being drafted into Dorchester town centre to combat violence and alcohol abuse in a summer long crack down on anti-social behaviour in the town.

Officers will be patrolling the town centre with multi-agency partners for the next two months at a time when levels of alcohol-related violence is known to increase on Friday and Saturday nights.

Patrolling police officers will be carrying pubwatch radios, which allow licensees to contact an officer directly if needed.

West Dorset District Council’s licensing team and Dorset County Council’s Trading Standards officers will also be stepping up checks in a bid to stop underage drinkers.

Inspector Les Fry of Dorset Police said: “We are committed to ensuring people of west Dorset are safe and feel safe.

“Under the banner of Operation Protect, we are joining forces with health, fire, local councils and the voluntary sector to tackle violent crime in all forms through increased enforcement and prevention activity in the towns.”

Dorset Police is providing an enhanced level of policing throughout August and September and on occasions, will be joined by Dorset Primary Care Trust staff, provide generic health and sexual health advice.

West Dorset District Council’s Community Safety Officer and Environmental Health Team will also be joining officers on patrol in the towns in a bid to keep people safe.

Prior to these visits, police officers have liaised with licensees, belonging to the town’s respective pubwatch schemes, advising them on how to facilitate a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for patrons.

Shire Alcohol and Drug Outreach Service (ShADOWS) workers will also take to the streets to offer young people advice and guidance on alcohol and drug use.

DORCHESTER: Police crack down on anti-social behaviour

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