We want people to feel safe in their communities. It is unacceptable for anyone to be afraid to use public spaces, shops or parks because they feel threatened by groups of people hanging around.
Crime - public disorder
Last updated 22 March 2012
If a young person under the age of sixteen is stopped in the area after 9pm and is not accompanied by an adult the police can escort them to their home address, if they are either:
Dispersal orders
A dispersal order will provide the police with additional powers to disperse groups of two or more people where the officer has reasonable grounds for believing that their presence or behaviour has resulted, or is likely to result, in a member of the public from being harassed, intimidated, alarmed or distressed. Once asked to disperse it will be a criminal offence for that person to return to the dispersal area for a 24-hour period.
If a young person under the age of sixteen is stopped in the area after 9pm and is not accompanied by an adult the police can escort them to their home address, if they are either:
- At risk or vulnerable from anti-social behaviour, crime etc
- Causing, or at risk of causing, anti-social behaviour
Dispersal orders in Waltham Forest
Grove Green and Leyton
The Grove Green dispersal commences from 12 noon on Friday 14 May 2011 and will end at 11.59am on Monday 13 November 2011
Higham Hill
The Higham Hill dispersal commences from 14.00 p.m. on Wednesday 13 July 2011 and will end at 13.59 p.m. on Thursday 12 January 2012
Cann Hall, Cathall and Leytonstone
The Cann Hall Cathall and Leytonstone dispersal commences from 12 noon on Saturday 30 July 2011 and will end Midday Monday 5 December 2011
Who decides which area needs a dispersal order?
A local senior police officer makes the decision based on recent available evidence, but the area also has to be agreed by the Council. The order will be in an area where there is persistent anti-social behaviour and a problem with groups causing intimidation. This area could be as small or as large as necessary, as long as there is evidence of anti-social behaviour.
How long does the order last?
A dispersal order can last for up to six months. A new order can be put in place after it, if another application is made. For more information on the current dispersal orders, or to report anti-social behaviour contact the Anti-social Behaviour Team.
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