Dispersal order Police take action after area blighted by drug activity
POLICE introduced a temporary dispersal order in an area near Bristol city centre in a move to crack down on drugrelated activity.
The 48-hour order came into force at 10am on Thursday and ran until Saturday morning, amid concerns over drug dealing in and around Wade Street, St Jude’s.
It allowed officers to disperse groups of non-residents and ban them from coming back until the order had ended.
It covered an area including Riverside Park, Lawfords Gate, Champion Square, Eugene Street, Globe House Car Park and Little Ann Street.
Neighbourhood Inspector Deepak Kenth said: “The Trinity neighbourhood team are aware of continuing drug-related activity and antisocial behaviour in the Wade Street area.
“Officers made an arrest relating to drugs supply on Wade Street on
September 11, and this week we have carried out targeted patrols, drafting in staff from all areas of the force to tackle crime and disorder in the area.
“Additionally, we are working closely with partner agencies, including local housing providers that support people with drug and alcohol dependencies.”
A dispersal order can be used for a maximum of 48 hours to prevent crime or disorder, or to stop people being harassed, alarmed or distressed. It must have regard for normal rights of freedom of expression and freedom of assembly.
A similar notice was placed on Easton’s Owen Square Park on September 4, after 100 people took part in a “silent disco”.
Inspector Kenth said: “We encourage the local community to report all incidents and suspicious behaviour as they help form a picture which enables targeted action to be taken. All reports about drugs-related crime and antisocial behaviour will be thoroughly investigated.”