Sec 34 Dispersal Broadstairs

Hello residents

For your awareness a Sec 34 dispersal order is being arranged to start this afternoon (22/05) in Broadstairs. This is due to concerns around Anti-social behaviour occurring as a result of the the hot weather and young persons attending after breaking up from schools. This morning I have already attended the newsagents and local businesses where alcohol is sold to provide words of advice about any issues that occur and will continue to speak to businesses this afternoon to pass reassurance.  

You will see a police presence in the town and beaches this afternoon and evening (22/05) as we intend for this dispersal to be well policed. As per my message several days ago. Please report any issues that occur so we are aware. 

I am also asking parents, if you are aware your children are attending Broadstairs this evening and/or during the week please engage in conversations with them about staying safe and acting in an acceptable manner. 

Below is a general explanation for how dispersal orders work and how police can enforce them, this is from the college of policing website:
A dispersal power is the power to direct a person to leave a specific location for up to 48 hours. A direction can be given to anyone who is, or appears to be, over the age of 10. Dispersal powers can be issued or applied for by police, including police community support officers (PCSOs) in some forces.

The officer must have reasonable grounds to suspect that the behaviour of the person has contributed or is likely to contribute to members of the public in the locality being harassed, alarmed or distressed (or the occurrence of crime and disorder); and the direction is necessary to remove or reduce the likelihood of the anti-social behaviour, crime, or disorder. "

I hope everyone has a pleasant bank holiday and enjoys the weather.  

Thank you

PC 14643 ABSOLON

Beat officer for Viking and Bradstowe