It was reported from the recent survey that ASB was being committed in the community, specifically in the areas of the town centre, The Leys and Church Green. It was reported that this was predominantly youths and at varying times of day.

In April, NHPT officers have completed patrols of the noted areas under Op Just; a dedicated ASB patrol. The noted locations have also formed part of a patrol plan which the NHPT have visited during their respective shifts. Youths have been engaged with at every available opportunity; involving speaking with parents, schools and social services on occasions. This is in an attempt to deter their activities. However, at times officers have had to deal with offences more robustly. Just some examples of police work so far this month include several youths being given community resolutions for their involvements in shopliftings at Co-Op (High St), Tesco (Station Lane) and Pound-stretchers. Further suspects have been requested to attend interviews about their involvements in the shopliftings. A male was also arrested and given a fine for being drunk and disorderly. This was whilst he was also in the presence of younger people. Those young persons were removed and taken home. Op Just patrols will continue for the next few months in order to continue combatting ASB.

The survey returned that the public are seeing drug related activity in the areas of the town centre, Madley Park and Deer Park.

Although these areas already constitute locations on our NHPT patrol plan, dedicated patrols from our officers has continued. This has been both in uniform and a plain clothed capacity. These patrols have been occurring hand in hand with Op Just; our ASB patrols as they cover similar areas. Our PCSOs have been completing several pieces of intelligence; submitting them to form part of the plan for our officers to target those involved and the respective locations. We have had positive reports from the public surrounding an increase in foot patrols in the locations suggested above. These patrols will continue through the next few months; especially over the Easter break. I hope to bring positive outcomes to you in our next update.

There have been several reports within the survey and recent Have Your Say meetings surrounding electric bikes and scooters, particularly in the town centre, and involving delivery bicycles.

Witney NHPT are committed to completing at least one (usually several) dedicated shift surrounding electric bikes and scooters each month. This will include several officers and agencies targeting the issue in the locations the public have provided. Currently we are engaging with users to educate them on the laws surrounding electric vehicle usage.

This month (April 25) saw several bikes seized and a significant response from the public surrounding the advertisement of this on our social media pages. The seized bikes recorded speeds in excess of 40mph when tested and present a significant risk to the public and the riders. The identities of the riders was established and all were spoken to in the presence of appropriate adults where applicable. Witney NHPT continues to act robustly surrounding the dangerous use of illegally modified e-bikes and scooters.

Several warnings were also given and education provided about e-scooters. Although these do not necessarily reach the speeds detailed above, they are still a cause for concern to many residents and also illegal on public highways.