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We've received a number of concerns from residents, businesses and parents about anti-social behaviour in Holbeach and Sutton Bridge in recent weeks, and I want to reassure you that we are taking these reports seriously.
On Saturday night (17 October), we introduced a dispersal order following an increase in reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. Three dispersal notices were issued, and enquiries are ongoing to identify those involved.
A small number of young people have been linked to incidents including damage to windows and doors, the repeated targeting of properties and businesses, eggs being thrown at homes, damage to vehicles, reports of violence between youths, and unlawful entry into properties. While some may view this behaviour as harmless fun, the reality is that it causes significant distress to victims and can have a lasting impact on residents and business owners who are central to our communities.
Quite simply, this behaviour cannot continue. Over recent weeks, we have increased our activity across the area. This has included high-visibility patrols, plain-clothed deployments, close work with South Holland District Council's CCTV team to identify those responsible, and engagement with local schools to help us identify and support young people at an early stage. We are also working closely with partner agencies, including Children's Services and Youth Justice colleagues, to ensure appropriate interventions and support are available where needed.
We've recently used dispersal powers in Holbeach and elsewhere in South Holland. These powers are designed to prevent alarm, harassment, and distress within the community by allowing officers to direct individuals away from an area where disorder is likely to occur. Their purpose is preventative, helping us intervene before situations escalate into more serious incidents.
I would also ask parents and guardians to speak with their children about where they are spending their time, who they are associating with, and the consequences of becoming involved in anti-social behaviour. Early intervention remains our preferred approach. If you believe your child may have been involved, or you are concerned they could be becoming drawn into this type of behaviour, please get in touch. We would much rather work with families at an early stage than see a young person become further involved in disorder or criminality.
Our approach is centred on prevention. We engage with young people, build positive relationships, and work alongside families, schools and partner agencies to address concerns before they escalate. Where appropriate, referrals are made to Children's Services and other support organisations to ensure young people receive the help they need.
However, if anti-social behaviour continues, or support and opportunities to change are not taken up, we will not hesitate to take more robust action. This can include acceptable behaviour agreements, formal warning notices, civil injunctions and, where criminal offences have been committed, investigations that may result in arrest and prosecution. Young people may also be referred to the Joint Diversionary Panel, which brings together police, Children's Services and Youth Justice professionals to determine the most appropriate intervention and help prevent further offending.
We are committed to keeping Holbeach and Sutton Bridge safe places for everyone. By working with our partners, local schools, businesses and residents, we will continue to identify issues early, support those who need it, and take firm action against those who choose to continue causing harm in our communities.
REPORT IT
Thank you to everyone who continues to report concerns to us. The information you provide helps us build a clearer picture of what's happening and allows us to target our resources where they are needed most.
If you feel you have information that might be useful to us, there are a number of ways you can get in touch.
By emailing us via spalding@lincs.police.uk
By calling 101
By telling us about concerns via the 'Tell us about' section of our website
By speaking with us while we’re on foot patrols
Or anonymously, via the Crimestoppers website
All information is handled sensitively and confidentially. Together, we can continue to target anti-social behaviour and protect our communities. | 
