18th August 2010

WEYMOUTH: Crime clampdown

Police arrest eight teenagers on Portland following public protests

by Paul Crompton

A CAMPAIGN staged in response to public outrage has seen police arrest eight Portland teenagers in a month long blitz on violence and anti-social behaviour on the island.

At a public meeting last month angry residents threatened vigilante action following a number of incidents in the area.

A second meeting, due to take place in Easton, will enable police to update residents and reassure them that activity in connection with violence and anti-social behaviour on Portland is ongoing.

Portland Safer Neighbourhood Team Sergeant Neil Wood said of the arrests: “I consider these achievements a good start and although the situation has improved, there is still work to be done.”

He added: “I look to you for your continued support while we tackle your concerns, bearing in mind that these incidents have been committed by a minority of individuals and are not a reflection on the majority of Portland residents.

“I would encourage you to attend the public meeting.”

To date a teenage gang, comprising of five Portland and one Weymouth youth, have been arrested in connection with the incident on July 3rd when a couple were attacked as they walked through Easton Square.

Since the first public meeting on July 12th a man has been arrested for carrying an offensive weapon, there have been two separate arrests for drug offences, and police have used powers to stop teenagers converging at known trouble hotspots.

Sergeant Wood said as a result of the increase in police patrols in the area, at times when residents had reported anti-social behaviour and violence was occurring, he had received positive feedback from many members of the public experiencing a reduction in incidents on the island.

“I know that concerns have been raised because not all police activity is visible,” he said. “However, I hope you understand that this is sometimes necessary for operational reasons, and that you can see action is being taken and results are being achieved.”

The meeting is scheduled for 7.30pm on Tuesday, August 24th at the Methodist Church Hall, Easton Square.

To raise any concerns call the Portland Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01202 222222 or 07500 816 319 or via email at portlandsnt@dorset.pnn.police.uk