Youth nuisance cut in Castleton

Underage drinking

An initiative to reduce anti-social behaviour and underage drinking in Castleton has been hailed a success so far.

Since Operation Buchan began on 17 March, police have arrested 24 people on suspicion of offences including breach of an Anti-Social Behavior Order, possession of an offensive weapon, possession of controlled substances with intent to supply and disqualified driving.

Thirty people have also received warnings under the dispersal order currently running in the town, and officers have conducted more than 200 stop checks on suspects.

During the period 17 March to 9 June, when Operation Buchan was running, there was a significant reduction in incidents compared to the previous 12 weeks.

Police recorded a 40 per cent drop in criminal damage, a 25 per cent drop in alcohol-related incidents and a decrease of 11 per cent in youth-related incidents.

Inspector Carol Wright of the Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “The results we have had so far are very encouraging, and prove that regular high-visibility patrols and visits to licensed premises in hotspot areas can have a real impact on anti-social behaviour. We will continue to work with our partners to combat this problem and improve the quality of life for local residents.”

Adrian Watson, Chief Environmental Health and Licensing Officer, said: “As part of the operation we have targeted local businesses and actively encouraged them to sell alcohol responsibly. We have taken enforcement action where necessary and we are very pleased with the results so far. We are keen to continue working with our partners for the benefit of the community as a whole.”

To report anti-social behaviour contact the Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Team:

Email: rochdalesouthpartnership@gmp.police.uk
Telephone: 0161 856 8549