A sharp rise in anti-social behaviour in Whitehaven has prompted police to issue a dispersal order for the town centre.
Copeland police said: “We were very busy last night with calls for service in Whitehaven town centre in relation to youth anti-social behaviour.
“This included numerous reports of items being thrown at vehicles, youths kicking at doors, climbing scaffolding on buildings and large groups of youths congregating and causing issues.
“A number of youths were stopped and searched for possession of items to cause criminal damage, and CCTV is being collated and viewed to identify further youths responsible for these incidents.
“As a result a dispersal order is currently in place until midnight this evening and this gives police the power to disperse youths out of Whitehaven town centre.
“This anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and we advise you to speak with your children and advise them against hanging out in Whitehaven town centre.
“While we appreciate it is not all youths causing these issues, the majority that are doing so are spoiling it for those who are able to be respectful when hanging out in the town.
“Officers will be conducting both high visibility and plain clothed patrols into the early hours to deter any anti-social behaviour and any youths causing issues will be dispersed and dealt with for any criminal offences committed.”
