People who refuse to leave Kirkby town centre on police orders tonight risk being arrested as Merseyside Police has announced a dispersal zone in the area.
The order, which began at 3pm today and will run until 3pm on Monday, June 5, was introduced following an increase in reports of criminal activity, police said.
Cherryfield Drive, County Road, Webster Drive, the A506 and the shops and streets located in Kirkby town centre all fall within the affected zone.
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Local policing sergeant Abbi Chalinor said: “This dispersal order has been introduced today in response to reports involving anti-social behaviour and criminality in the area.
“This behaviour is having a negative impact on businesses, residents and people who are shopping or visiting Kirkby town centre.
“Patrols have been increased in the area to deal with any issues, and this order is an additional measure to prevent any criminality from taking place."
Dispersal orders come under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour and Policing Act 2014, which gives police officers powers to direct people who are engaging in anti-social behaviour, or who they believe could become involved in such incidents. They also have the power to seize any item used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.
It is a criminal offense for anyone who has been ordered to leave the area to return while the dispersal zone remains active, and Merseyside Police warned that people caught doing this could be arrested.
Local policing sgt Chalinor added: “This dispersal zone is to give officers in the area extra powers to approach people they suspect may be there to commit anti-social behaviour or other crimes.
“This order is also to ensure residents and businesses are not subjected to any such behaviour, and I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action.
“We will be in the area to provide reassurance to those people who simply want to shop or visit our neighbourhood without having to be confronted with this behaviour.
“I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble. If you witness any anti-social behaviour or have any information about such incidents, please contact or speak to our officers and we will take action.”
Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. Information about anti-social behaviour can be sent to @MerPolCC on Twitter or 'Merseyside Police Contact Centre' on Facebook. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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