Hull: Anti-social behaviour on the Boothferry Estate

Authorities are taking robust action in relation to reports of anti-social behaviour and arson in the Boothferry Estate and Gower Road area of Hull. Humberside Police takes these matters seriously and have uniformed officers in and around the area to combat the issues, working alongside our partners.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Craig Mattinson said: “We have been dealing with recent reports regarding anti-social behaviour and arson around the Gower Road area of Hull. We will not let a minority of youths cause issues in this area and are working hard with partners to prevent issues.

“Any incident where youths are causing arson to wheelie bins or criminal damage to street furniture are completely unacceptable and will be dealt with. There are officers in uniform and plain clothes in and around the area taking positive action such as arresting and banning people from the area. Poor behaviour will not be tolerated within our communities.

“This behaviour poses a risk to other people within the community and for those who would legitimately like to use the park.

“We have identified a core group of offenders and many are already going through the criminal justice system.

“We understand the impact anti-social behaviour has on our communities and that is why we will continue to patrol the area, particularly targeting individuals and locations. Please come and speak to police officers and PCSOs in the area about any concerns.

“We are working alongside our partners in Hull City Council and Humberside Fire and Rescue to address residents’ concerns.

“We have a number of measures at our disposal and will always look at prevention first, such as positive engagement. We have also talked to parents and guardians about the importance of knowing where their children are, and educating them on the consequences of poor behaviour.

“However, we are looking at enforcement measures now, such as exceptional behaviour contracts and, where necessary, arrests will be made. Last night (Tuesday 9 November) we arrested one person and there were four breaches of dispersal notices, which we are currently investigating. Numerous youths have already been arrested and we are awaiting the CPS decision, due to their ages.

“We will be patrolling the area every evening and have the option to draft in extra resources if necessary.

“While we will always act when a crime has been committed, it is important to recognise that the issues can’t be solved by policing alone, which is why working with our partners in the local authorities is absolutely crucial.

“We would advise residents to engage with our officers and follow the safety advice we have already issued in the area: to secure wheelie bins in a rear garden, or out of the way, and only take them out for a short period.

“I would continue to encourage residents to report any suspicious, anti-social or criminal behaviour they either witness or fall victim to via our 101 service or by speaking with the local policing team, as that information allows us to target our resources more effectively.

“By reporting through official means we can, as well as partners, have a full picture of the issues in the community and take action against those at the core of them.”