Humberside Police officers on Grimsby’s East Marsh say they have been “actively addressing” concerns about anti-social behaviour in Grant Thorold Park.
As previously reported by Gi Grimsby News, anti-social behaviour and arson attacks have been long-running issues in the area, with reports spiking in recent months.
Residents and ward councillors have repeatedly called for improved measures to tackle the issue. Now, police say they have joined forces with Humberside Fire and Rescue, and other local authorities to improve safety and combat anti-social behaviour in Grimsby.
A total of twenty-six children and teenagers have been dealt with as a result, including one has been charged.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant David Bullock leading the initiative said: “We have listened to community concerns regarding reports of arson and bins being set alight, and we’ve implemented enhanced measures to tackle anti-social behaviour in the area of Grant Thorold Park to address this issue effectively. A dedicated operation has been launched, involving increased patrols, plain clothes surveillance, and a dedicated CCTV operator to monitor the area.
“Building on our ongoing work, during March and early April, the team has made further progress in tackling anti-social behaviour and identifying those responsible for incidents in the area.”
Since Monday 24 March, measures have seen the following results:
– A 14-year-old teenager has been charged with attempted criminal damage to a police vehicle and three counts of shop theft.
– A 15-year-old teenager has been arrested for assault and has since been released under investigation following further enquiries.
– A 14-year-old teenager has been referred to the Youth Justice Service (YJS) for arson.
– A 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old teenager were voluntarily interviewed for arson and shop theft, with referrals to the Youth Justice Service.
– A 14-year-old teenager was issued a community resolution for two reports of assault, with referral to the YJS.
– Four teenagers and a 11-year-old boy were issued with dispersal notices and removed from the area during the operation period.
– Parents and guardians of fifteen juveniles engaged in discussions about their involvement, with follow-up visits ongoing.
Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant David Bullock continues: ”In addition to our proactive patrols we’ve distributed nearly 100 bin locks to secure bins in key locations while working closely with Humberside Fire, North East Lincolnshire Council, and EQUANS. These efforts focus on proactive prevention measures, aiming to reduce crimes such as arson and further improve community safety.
”Our partners have also been actively involved in outreach efforts across the East Marsh, working together to tackle issues head-on and build stronger connections within the community. We have hosted a drop-in session at Grant Thorold Park to engage with residents, listen to their concerns, and promote local safety.
”Since the implementation of this initiative, we’ve seen positive examples of community involvement, such as young people stepping in to prevent further damage. In one instance, it is reported a group of young people stopped their friends from setting fire to a bin. Further underlining the importance of proactive efforts and the collaborative work with partners to drive change.
”Members of the public should be able to enjoy their local parks without disruption or risk to safety. I want to remind everyone that any type of anti-social behaviour is completely unacceptable, and those responsible will be held accountable.
”As we continue to address anti-social behaviour our focus remains on reducing crime and emphasizing prevention efforts, particularly with young people. The collaboration with our partners has been invaluable, and I want to extend my thanks to everyone involved, both our partners and the community.
“We are committed to building on the progress we’ve made so far. Information provided by the community plays a vital role, and we strongly encourage you to report any offences or information to us. This helps us develop a clearer picture and take appropriate action.
Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, added: “These are astounding results by Humberside Police and the partner agencies involved.
“The Council are delighted to have aided via the use of CCTV and will always support initiatives that are a priority to the residents of North East Lincolnshire.
“Those involved have shown how important working together can be and we are proud to have been a part of this push to make our green spaces safer and a place that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.”
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.