Bridport: Police operation to deter festive troublemakers (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)

Bridport: Police operation to deter festive troublemakers

9:54am Thursday 17th December 2009

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Police patrols will be stepped in Bridport from tomorrow in a bid to reduce violent crime during the run up to Christmas.

Drunken troublemakers are being targeted in Operation Protect, with more officers on the streets this Friday and Saturday and on Christmas Eve.

Extra monitoring of CCTV cameras will also be undertaken to help with enforcement and prevent alcohol-related crime.

The initiative will involve enhanced high-visibility and targeted foot patrols supported by members of the Special Constabulary.

Pubs and off-licences will be subject to inspection to ensure that licensees are acting responsibly.

In some cases, surfaces within the premises will be tested for evidence of drug taking.

Police will be joined by local authority licensing officers and trading standards officials to carry out the checks.

In addition, officers will be using section 27 dispersal orders which give them the power to move individuals from a public place. A police spokesman said the increased activity was designed as a warning for the small percentage of people who may cause trouble and reassurance for those enjoying a night on the town.

Bridport Section Commander Inspector Alan Jenkins said the main aim of Operation Protect was to deter potential troublemakers.

He said: “It is important to stress there is not any serious issue or concerns with violent crime in Bridport.

“This operation aims to nip in the bud low level disorder and the minor assaults that have shown a slight increase compared with previous years.

“By working in partnership with publicans through the town Pubwatch scheme and enhanced monitoring of the town CCTV system combined with the extra patrols we hope to ensure that all visitors to Bridport have safe and pleasant festive seasons.”

Operation Protect is a county-wide initiative being adopted in several rural communities.

Chief Inspector Nick Maton, of Dorset County Division, said: “The odds are well and truly stacked against anyone thinking of causing trouble this Christmas.

“With all the prevention measures we have in place, including CCTV coverage, the support of pub and club licensees and a strong police presence on the streets at key times, those who commit violent crime are very unlikely to get away with it.

“This is also a reassuring message for all the law-abiding people who simply come into our towns to take advantage of the vibrant nightlife on offer.”

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