Clampdown on Halloween troublemakers

POLICE across Warrington have been planning a campaign to tackle troublemakers over the Halloween and Bonfire Night season.
Incidents of anti-social behaviour in the town traditionally rise during the celebrations and police are warning that intimidation or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
Chief Inspector Jon Ward said: “We know that the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun but, unfortunately, there is a minority of people who are intent on causing problems and use Halloween and Bonfire Night as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.
“What we are going to do is to take steps to put a stop to the people who think they can use this time of year as some sort of excuse to break the law and frighten or harass others.”
He warned that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and police will take action where necessary.
Officers from the five local Neighbourhood Policing Units in Warrington (Town Centre, Central, East, West and South) have been planning operations for weeks to ensure Halloween and Bonfire Night are as peaceful as possible.
The campaign, which runs until November 6, aims to promote what is being done by police, partners and the community, to tackle crime. It coincides with Not in My Neighbourhood Week – a national government campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour in local communities.
Officers will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in hotspot areas at key times to deter potential troublemakers. They will deal with any incidents of crime and disorder, confiscate alcohol from underage drinkers and visit local shops and off-licences to offer advice and support.
PCSOs will also be visiting elderly and vulnerable residents to offer reassurance and to address any issues or concerns they might have.
Parents are urged to take responsibility for their children and ensure that youngsters are in a supervised environment. They are asked to ensure that trick or treaters respect people’s privacy and that behaviour is not anti-social.