Police cracking down on youth crime in town centre

Police officers have started an operation to tackle anti-social behaviour in one Somerset town as residents say it is a big problem in their community.

Avon and Somerset Police say the operation in Bridgwater follows 450 youth related incidents over the past year.

Officers confirmed the operation has led to a number of arrests - including 10 children for alleged offences including assault, criminal damage and possession of bladed weapons or illegal drugs.

Residents Steve Apelt, 62, said: "My mother is 94, I tried to walk with her and nearly got knocked over. There's swearing and shouting. And just generally, it just doesn't seem to be controlled, sadly."

Mr Apelt who lives in Yeovil, visits Bridgwater a lot to take care of his mother.

"I think the people have no care, they're not polite. I find it very offensive, the hoods and face covering.

"I walked in to a shop, two young people were shouting and swearing at the shop keeper, taking something, not paying for it.

"I find that appalling. It's so sad for the shopkeepers around here," he added.

Meanwhile, Avon and Somerset Police said as part of their recent campaign, a 15-year-old was charged with criminal damage at a local charity, while a 12-year-old arrested in connection with the incident has been released on bail.

In another incident, four arrests were made following an assault on a security guard at a supermarket and two further adults were detained in relation to a serious assault in the town centre.

In addition to enforcement action, police are working closely with social care to identify the most vulnerable individuals and intervene early.

They are offering support to children, some as young as seven, who are at risk of becoming involved in crime and violence.

Inspector Sarah Knight from the local neighbourhood policing team said: "Children and young people involved in serious violence and crime often come from difficult backgrounds.

"Many of those we encounter are highly vulnerable and are being exploited by older individuals who manipulate them into criminal activity for their own gain.

"Our officers are increasing patrols in areas of concern. Anti-social behaviour and serious youth violence have no place in our town, and we remain committed to making Bridgwater a safe place for everyone."

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