Geoff
10-11-2003, 11:33
South Yorkshire has seen 19% reduction in calls about anti-social behaviour over the bonfire night period.
The interim figures for Operation Mischief show up the startling reduction in numbers of incidents compared to the same period last year.
Over 140 people across the county have been arrested in connection with various offences relating to the misuse of fireworks, criminal damage and drunk and disorderly, and other anti-social behaviour.
Extra officers have flooded the streets during the traditionally busy period, mirroring the government-led street crime initiative last year.
Inspector Tim Ireland, heading up the operation commented: “We’ve been very pleased with the feedback that we’ve had from the public more than anything else. People in most areas seem to feel that they have had a better time of things this year, and although it’s not been perfect, people have appreciated the extra support.”
Barnsley district has seen the biggest reduction in reported incidents, with their statistics showing up a massive 40% drop. Substantial decreases are also reported from Doncaster and Rotherham (26%) as well as Sheffield (9%)
In addition – 36 retailers have been reported on summons for supplying fireworks or alcohol to underage children.
A two-day truancy sweep held across the county last Thursday and Friday resulted in police officers and representatives from education welfare talking to 209 children who were out of school. Although some of the children were on authorised absences, officers were surprised to note that around 40% were with a parent or guardian. Almost half of the children – 97 - were spoken to in Sheffield, with 51 in Barnsley, 37 in Doncaster and 24 in Rotherham. 124 of the total number were male.
The interim figures for Operation Mischief show up the startling reduction in numbers of incidents compared to the same period last year.
Over 140 people across the county have been arrested in connection with various offences relating to the misuse of fireworks, criminal damage and drunk and disorderly, and other anti-social behaviour.
Extra officers have flooded the streets during the traditionally busy period, mirroring the government-led street crime initiative last year.
Inspector Tim Ireland, heading up the operation commented: “We’ve been very pleased with the feedback that we’ve had from the public more than anything else. People in most areas seem to feel that they have had a better time of things this year, and although it’s not been perfect, people have appreciated the extra support.”
Barnsley district has seen the biggest reduction in reported incidents, with their statistics showing up a massive 40% drop. Substantial decreases are also reported from Doncaster and Rotherham (26%) as well as Sheffield (9%)
In addition – 36 retailers have been reported on summons for supplying fireworks or alcohol to underage children.
A two-day truancy sweep held across the county last Thursday and Friday resulted in police officers and representatives from education welfare talking to 209 children who were out of school. Although some of the children were on authorised absences, officers were surprised to note that around 40% were with a parent or guardian. Almost half of the children – 97 - were spoken to in Sheffield, with 51 in Barnsley, 37 in Doncaster and 24 in Rotherham. 124 of the total number were male.