CUMBRIA Police and agency partners in Carlisle are working together to tackle an increase in the number of anti-social behaviour incidents reported in the city centre and Harraby areas.

Police have received increased reports of anti-social behaviour over the past few weeks, which has resulted in the need to issue daily dispersal orders and increase patrolling of the areas.

The reports received relate to the actions of large groups of young people, aged between 11 and 17, who are gathering in the town centre and Harraby areas most evenings.

Reports received include incidents of criminal damage, ABH assault, public order offences, loitering and general anti-social behaviour.

Such behaviour is causing distress and disruption for both residents and businesses.

The incidents that have been reported have been investigated and the crimes identified remain under active investigation.

Carlisle Chief Inspector, Gill Cherry said: “We share the community’s concern, frustration and disappointment at the recent increase in anti-social behaviour and are committed to taking robust action.

“We are investigating the incidents in the city centre and Harraby areas and are working closely with local educational establishments and partner agencies to address this behaviour.

“We believe there are a number of separate groups of young people involved and I can reassure our communities that action is being taken on a daily basis to investigate and prevent further incidents.

“We have issued dispersal orders each night that incidents have been reported and will continue to do so. Patrolling of identified locations of concern has been increased and we are continuing to deploy officers wearing body cameras to capture the behaviour of those responsible.

“Following reports over the last week, two young people, aged 11 and 13 respectively, were stopped by our officers and taken home to their parents.

"Both children have received It’s Your Choice warnings from our Child Centred Policing Team for their anti-social behaviour.

“Dispersal orders have been utilised on several occasions over the last few weeks to reduce the likelihood of crime or disorder. This power is not used lightly, however, it has been necessary and we will continue to appropriately use this to disperse those who continue to behave in an unacceptable manner.”

Police are appealing directly to the parents of those who may be involved to assist in tackling the issue.

Chief Inspector Cherry continued: “We also need the support of parents of those who may be involved. Do you know where your child is, who they are with and what they are doing?

“Some of the incidents reported to us are of truly shameful behaviour with members of your community, young and old, being subject to abusive language and being made to feel unsafe or intimidated.

"This must stop and if you suspect your child is involved in this behaviour, then please speak with them and help us prevent further incidents.

“Criminal or anti-social behaviour can lead to young people being arrested and prosecuted, resulting in convictions which can have a serious detrimental impact on their future life choices.

“We will be exploring all appropriate interventions and sanctions available to address the offending behaviour.

“We are appealing to the public for more information on these incidents, including the identification of those involved. 

“Anyone found to be committing crime or causing anti-social behaviour will be dealt with robustly.”

You can report information online at cumbria.police.uk/reportit or by calling 101.

In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, always call 999.

Alternatively, reports can be made completely anonymously, by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.