Teenagers causing anti-social behaviour in Deal, Sandwich and Ramsgate have been confronted and challenged over their actions during an operation by police in Kent.
Neighbourhood policing officers from Dover and Thanet districts worked with British Transport Police and the Special Constabulary around east Kent on Friday 16 February 2024.
Uniform and plain clothes officers in unmarked vehicles carried out patrols around Deal and Sandwich, following reports of concerns about groups of teenagers in those areas. Meanwhile, additional officers were deployed in the village of Minster and around Ramsgate railway station, speaking to young people and reminding them of the impact of their actions on others.
16-year-old girl and 12-year-old boy arrested
A 16-year-old girl was arrested in Minster for breaching a Community Protection Notice (CPN) prohibiting her from being part of large groups or behaving in a way which could cause alarm or distress. She was referred to the Youth Justice Team and will appear before a youth court in March for breaching the CPN.
A 12-year-old boy was also arrested in Sandwich and taken home to his family following reports of criminal damage to a car and shoplifting in the town.
Alcohol seized
Alcohol was seized from a number of children, five people were stopped and searched and 15 penalties were handed out by British Transport Police for travelling on trains without a ticket.
Protecting communities
Sergeant Gavin Rolfe, of Dover Community Safety Unit, said:
‘Nobody wants to stop young people enjoying themselves. However, when their actions lead to shoplifting, assaults or the carrying of weapons, it is right that the police step in.
‘Officers engaged with the teenagers they encountered during the patrols, warning them of the impact of anti-social behaviour. Where necessary, action was taken against individuals suspected of breaking the law.
‘We will continue to carry out operations of this kind to address concerns raised to us by the community, and make sure everyone feels safe.’