Gloucestershire Police have recently conducted a significant operation targeting anti-social behaviour (ASB) across the county, seizing three illegal e-scooters and arresting four individuals on three charges. The week-long campaign, which started on Monday 24 August and concluded on Saturday 29 August, aimed to enhance safety in town and city centres by addressing issues such as shoplifting, ASB, and the use of illegal electric vehicles.
Officers from neighbourhood policing teams played a central role in the initiative, carrying out seven stop searches, issuing six formal ASB warning letters to individuals, businesses, or organisations, and confiscating alcohol containers. Superintendent James Glansfield, who leads neighbourhood policing, acknowledged the progress made but emphasised that challenges remain.
“Anti-social behaviour is an issue faced by towns and cities all across the country and we’re aware of the impact that it causes for the residents of Gloucestershire,” Supt Glansfield explained. “While reported ASB incidents have decreased this summer compared to last year, too many people still suffer its effects.”
READ MORE: Woman Overcomes Years of Debilitating Bloating After Identifying Food Intolerances
READ MORE: Concerns Rise Over Bourton-on-the-Water Becoming a Village Without Residents
He highlighted the efforts made over recent months, noting that more than 40 e-scooters and bicycles have been seized from riders causing public disturbances, alongside numerous arrests. The operation, which will continue into the autumn, seeks to sustain this momentum.
During the week of action, nearly 50 officers dedicated 229 hours to patrol duties across Gloucestershire, ensuring an increased police presence to deter and address ASB. In Gloucester city centre, a Section 34 dispersal order was enforced from 3.45pm on Thursday until 3.45pm on Saturday to disrupt disruptive behaviour.
In Cheltenham, officers conducted foot patrols along the High Street and other known ASB hotspots on Wednesday, joined by local Liberal Democrat MP Max Wilkinson. Throughout the week, engagement with delivery riders and drivers also took place to verify that correct insurance and documentation were held.
The campaign has been well received by the community, with praise flowing from members of the public and local businesses. Supt Glansfield expressed gratitude and encouraged anyone affected by anti-social behaviour to report incidents through the police’s online form or by calling 101, emphasising the force’s commitment to ensuring safety across Gloucestershire.