Big drop in anti-social behaviour

Police in Fife have hailed the result of a crackdown in Levenmouth which has led to a notable reduction in anti-social behaviour.

The force has seen a 90% drop in calls about antisocial motorbike use since the project started in 2019 in response to a sharp increase in reports of bad behaviour.

After recognising the impact the behaviour was having on the community, Police Scotland said the force and elected members from the Fife Council local area committee worked with partners to initiate a “wraparound” approach to tackling the issue.

It was agreed two police officers would be dedicated to policing anti-social behaviour. New results for 2021 show Improving Levenmouth Together has led to calls about off-road motorbikes falling from 891 in 2018 to 85 during the same period in 2021.

The project had already achieved results in its first year, with a 60% reduction in calls about bad behaviour.

Since its introduction, the project has evolved to include more focus on working with young people in the area to prevent them from being involved in crime.

Officers are also working with Levenmouth Academy and third sector organisations to provide young people with opportunities to reach positive destinations, by gaining qualifications and

life skills. Paul Gillespie, Levenmouth community inspector, said: “My aim is to ensure Police Scotland officers are at the heart of the Levenmouth community and it is recognised our local officers are committed to improving the lives and wellbeing of young people across the area.”

He added: “The Improving Levenmouth Together project has been an incredible success and we are looking to build a legacy in the community over a sustained period.”

Inspector Gillespie praised Sergeant Craig Fyall and his team of community officers.

Councillor Ken Caldwell,

convener of the Levenmouth area committee, said he was glad to see the project move on from an enforcement approach.

He said the idea of funding police officers directly was “very innovative”, but that the crime results show it has worked.

SUCCESS: The Levenmouth scheme has led to a significant reduction in complaints.