GMP have helped tackle a number of 'hotspots of criminality' in a Manchester suburb - including ensure 'dramatic' changes at fast-food restaurants plagued by anti-social behaviour.
The Gorton Neighbourhood team, headed by Inspector Daniel Pickavance, regularly patrol the streets with PCs and PCSOs and deal with a variety of offences which cause disruption and nuisance to the east Manchester area. Police say these have included problems such as youths causing trouble at fast-food restaurants in the area.
And on Tuesday (April 25), officers arrested a man on suspicion of possessing a bladed article and class B drugs. That same evening, a suspected disqualified driver was also taken off the streets.
READ MORE: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community
A man was also arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence on Wednesday (April 26), whilst a van was stopped and searched after it was suspected of being used to transport drugs. A number of class B drugs were subsequently removed from the vehicle.
Over the last three months, the Gorton Neighbourhood team says it has surpassed its targets and reduced anti-social behaviour by actively targeting known hotspots - despite being one of the smaller units in the area.
The team have also tackled robberies through work with local authorities and businesses to improve CCTV coverage. Officers say they are also working with local partners to help identify youths who are being exploited and drawn into criminality and to then help avert them from such behaviour.
Inspector Pickavance said: “Keeping this community safe is our number one priority and our work is ultimately informed by what the public tells us. We regularly check on areas that we know are affected by ASB – whether that’s graffiti, teenagers intimidating, or people taking drugs – our team will ensure that they are appropriately dealt with.
“These patrols are aimed at disrupting those who cause problems in the lives of law-abiding citizens and I want the public to know that we have a zero-tolerance to these people.
“Recently, we had a problem at fast-food restaurants in the area, with young people causing problems for customers. We stepped up patrols, worked with partners in the community, and made a number of suggestions to how the restaurant could deter nuisance offenders. We saw a dramatic change and ultimately that is what we strive for: crime-free locations where people feel safe.
“If you have a problem with ASB and need help, I urge you to get in touch with us. Our team will be able to help you with your issues and advise how we can deal with them. We have regular patch meetings where you can meet our officers for a brew and a catch-up. If you are interested, I would highly recommend coming along to one.
“Keep an eye on our Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest news in your area. The new Bee In The Loop service is well-worth signing up to as well: all of these things can keep you up to date with the latest happenings.”
READ NEXT:
- Two arrested after police lead on 100mph chase by 'suspicious' Volkswagen
Prolific shoplifter banned from area of city after stealing £5,000 of goods from retail park
- Police investigate owner of Pitbull for manslaughter after it kills 67-year-old grandmother
- Greater Manchester theatre, nightclub and snooker hall where The Beatles played could be demolished
- Stop-and-search powers stepped up after car plunges into water following 'altercation'
