Police issue dispersal order in Derbyshire town after spate of anti-social behaviour

Officers have been called to several incidents in past days involving anti-social behaviour in Ilkeston town centre.

As a result, police have issued a section 34 dispersal notice which came into force at 6pm yesterday (Thursday, June 8) and lasts until 6pm on Saturday, July 10

The order allows officers to disperse people from the area if they are involved in instances of anti-social behaviour and take anyone under 16 back to their home.

Inspector Ed Browne, who leads the policing team for Ilkeston, said: “As a force we are keenly aware of the impact that behaviour of the type seen in Ilkeston town centre over past days has on the local community.

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“After such a long period of time when people haven’t been able to go out and enjoy themselves with friends and family, the last thing we want is for a small minority to spoil that.

“That’s why we have taken the action to help my officers ensure that they have all the tools at their disposal to remove those who are causing trouble.

“And if you are in the town centre know that we will take robust, but proportionate action, to make our town centre a pleasant place to live, work and visit.”

Police have released a map of areas covered by the dispersal order which include St Mary Street, Market Place, South Street, East Street and parts of New Lawn Road, Wharncliffe Road and Albert Street.

Anyone who refuses to leave these areas when asked by police is committing an offence which, if convicted, can lead to a fine of up to £2,500 and/or three months in prison.

A dispersal order can only be put in place for a maximum of 48 hours but at the point of expiry, officers will carry out an assessment and a further period of up to 48 hours may be granted if necessary.

You can report any concerns or issues with anti-social behaviour to Derbyshire police on 101.

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