Sidmouth

Reduce Antisocial Behaviour

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) is defined as 'behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person'. There are three main categories of ASB including: Personal ASB, Nuisance ASB, and environmental ASB. This can include littering, noise, inconsiderate behaviour, nuisance calls, antisocial driving, abandoned vehicles, begging, and street drinking.

The Sidmouth Neighbourhood Police Team has been actively responding to local concerns and working with partners to help keep our communities safe.

Following reports of damage being caused to a resident's book library near The Byes, officers obtained CCTV footage and worked closely with a local school to identify those responsible. The children involved admitted their actions and the matter is now being addressed through restorative justice processes led by the Child Centred Police Team. This approach helps young people understand the impact of their behaviour while making amends to those affected.

Officers have also increased patrols in areas where anti-social behaviour and criminal damage have been reported. Current hotspot locations include Long Park, Sidmouth, along with the parks on Manstone Lane and Back Lane in Newton Poppleford. If you witness anti-social behaviour or have concerns about your area, please continue to report incidents so we can target our resources effectively.

A woman has been arrested following a number of incidents involving drunken nuisance behaviour in The Triangle. Officers are continuing to gather evidence and will be seeking a court order that could prohibit her from being drunk in public and restrict her access to specified locations.

Officers have also issued a warning under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 to a driver whose manner of driving was causing alarm and annoyance. Any further anti-social driving could result in his vehicle being seized.

The Neighbourhood Team recently apprehended an adult male riding an e-scooter who failed to comply when directed to stop by an officer on foot. The rider has been reported for driving offences and the e-scooter was seized under Road Traffic Act powers.

If you have concerns about anti-social behaviour please report it to us via 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Drug Possession and Supply

The effects of illegal drugs have devasting impact within the community leading to anti-social behaviour, violence, and safeguarding issues. Community intelligence is invaluable to Police in dealing effectively with drug suppliers. Information from the public helps to prevent and detect crime, whilst ensuring the safeguarding and protection of our community.

The Neighbourhood Police Team continues to work closely with the community to gather intelligence regarding drug supply within the area.
The team have increased patrols in areas known for drug use and supply. As expected, these areas are also often those where antisocial behaviour is most prevalent.
A juvenile male recently found in possession of drugs has been reported for an offence. His case will be heard by the Youth Justice Panel who will make a decision on a suitable Youth Justice outcome aimed at addressing his behaviour and preventing further offending.
An adult male caught driving under the influence of drugs during a covert operation by East Devon Neighbourhood Police Team has been disqualified from driving, after appearing at court. The male was found to be under the influence of cocaine and cannabis, and was driving without insurance. He has been bailed and awaits further sentencing.
Officers are also seeking a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) against a juvenile male previously convicted of drug supply offences. If granted, the order will place restrictions on his behaviour and movements, helping to disrupt further criminal activity and protect the wider community.
If you suspect illegal activity in your area please report it via 101 online or by phone. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Rural Crime & Engagement

Rural crime is an issue affecting large areas of our county but often goes unreported. Due to the unique geography of our patch it can often be a challenging issue to police and robustly tackle. We aim to improve relations and connectivity within the community by attending rural events to offer crime prevention advice.

Following an investigation by the Child Centred Policing Team, a child is due to receive a Youth Conditional Caution for the offence of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. In addition to the criminal justice outcome, the Neighbourhood Police Team is working alongside Youth Justice Services and Social Services to provide support and intervention aimed at reducing the risk of reoffending and addressing any underlying issues.

PCSO Starkey has been out in Newton Poppleford and Sidford using educational mobile speed detection equipment in response to concerns raised by local residents about vehicle speeds through the villages. The equipment displays motorists' speeds in real time, encouraging drivers to check their speed and slow down where necessary. These deployments are designed to improve road safety, particularly in areas used regularly by pedestrians, cyclists, families and school children.

As we move into a busy summer period, you will see the Neighbourhood Team and other policing colleagues out and about during the Sidmouth Folk Festival and at the Sidmouth Air Show. Officers will be working throughout both events to help ensure everyone can enjoy them safely.

If you see us on patrol, please come and say hello. We are always happy to discuss local concerns, answer questions and hear what's important to you. And for our younger community members, we'll be bringing plenty of Devon & Cornwall Police stickers along too!