Dispersal order in place after anti-social behaviour at Staffordshire beauty spot
A dispersal order has been put in place at the Milford Common beauty spot, near Stafford, as officers in Staffordshire continue to crack down on anti-social behaviour.
In a bid to tackle the issue after concerns from local residents, police have put a dispersal order in place from today for 24 hours.
The order, which has been granted under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, gives officers the power to disperse anyone for the purpose of or reducing the likelihood of members of the public being harassed, alarmed, distressed or the occurrence of crime and disorder.
The order for an area of Milford Common, on the edge of Cannock Chase, began at midday today and will last for 24 hours – unless extended by police.
Chief Inspector Giles Parsons from Stafford’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Following an increase in calls from concerned residents, officers will be patrolling the area over the coming days to tackle any instances of crime or anti-social behaviour.
“The majority of people go out to meet up with their friends and do not cause any problems. However, there is a number of individuals that have engaged in anti-social behaviour, which has caused the community to feel worried by these larger groups.
“We understand that people will want to enjoy places like Milford Common and the wider countryside but we ask that it’s respected. In the current climate, social distancing measures also need to be adhered to.
“I would like to stress that officers will only use these powers where absolutely necessary and appeal to parents and guardians to ensure that they know where their children are, what they are up to and who they are with.”
Anyone with any concerns can contact Staffordshire Police by calling 101.
