Local Priorities Criminal damage ( arson, vandalism, graffiti and other deliberate criminal damage) Update

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Criminal damage ( arson, vandalism, graffiti and other deliberate criminal damage), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

Over the last few weeks various reports have been received regarding incidents of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour in the village being caused by young people. Its the summer holidays and I'm sure that we all want all young people to have an enjoyable safe summer where they can explore the fantastic surroundings.

The main issues which are being reported are,

Theft of items from properties which are then being used to create "den" spaces. While the dens in themselves are not a problem, in the last few weeks the dens have been destroyed by others and the contents thrown into local waterways, this causes blockages and following on from the flood last year this could then be a serious problem. This also includes food litter which is often left in the water.

People deviating from rights of way and footpaths, entering private gardens and causing damage to trees, plants, foliage, wildlife structures and property to gain access to streams and rivers.

Entering sports ground and pitches during matches or training sessions and when being asked to leave for their own safety becoming abusive and leaving litter behind.

Walking or cycling between Nether Heyford and Bugbrooke down the middle, weaving in and out of traffic. Please ensure if you do use these routes you stay to one side facing oncoming traffic and wearing bright clothing and not using your mobile phone or listening to music as this can be distracting.

The majority of those that I have encountered in this area are fantastic examples of young people so this will be the minority causing issues and may be from other areas. While these incidents might seem minor they could constitute criminal damage, theft and public order if left to get out of control.

Please can you share these details with any young people in your care and remind them of how they should behave when out and about in the community.

If you are having issues in your area these can be reported to the police using 101 or 999 in an emergency or online at www.northants.police.uk

Tackling antisocial behaviour can be a complex issue, and one which requires input and action from more than just the police.

The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 aims to put victims first, giving power to local people and enabling professionals to find the best solutions for their local area.

The act provides the police, local authorities and other local agencies with flexible tools and powers that they can use to respond quickly and effectively to antisocial behaviour.

These include:

• civil injunctions.
• criminal behaviour orders.
• public spaces protection orders.
• community protection notices.
• dispersal powers.
• closure powers.

The act also includes measures such as the Community Remedy and antisocial behaviour case reviews which empower victims and communities to have a say in the outcome of their reports and hold agencies to account.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at www.northants.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. 

Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

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