DISPERSAL powers have been authorised in a Hampshire town following a rise in antisocial behaviour.
Police have put the powers in place at Romsey town centre following a rise of anti-social behaviour incidents in recent weeks.
The orders started at 12pm today, Friday April 23, and will be in place until 6am on Monday April 26. It covers the area surrounding Romsey town centre as shown in the map below.
The dispersal zone covers the town centre, down to Bypass Road and up to Sandy Lane.
It gives officers the power to disperse people under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014; they can also seize any items used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.
Those under 16 will be taken be to their home address, and follow-up work will be done with parents.
Inspector Chris Taylor said: “The criminal and anti-social behaviour we have seen by some is inconsiderate and unacceptable.
“We have made these incidents a district priority, and have increased foot and cycle patrols in the area to combat this.”
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