Anti-social behaviour complaints across South Tyneside continue to rise during lockdown

New figures reveal that complaints about anti-social behaviour continued to rise during the second full month of the coronavirus pandemic.
Seven incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported in York Avenue, Jarrow, during May.Seven incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported in York Avenue, Jarrow, during May.
Seven incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported in York Avenue, Jarrow, during May.

Northumbria Police stressed that a “significant proportion” of the 918 cases were suspected breaches of emergency covid-19 legislation such as house parties or gangs congregating outdoors.

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Now May’s figures, which have been published by the Home Office, show that the number of anti-social behaviour incidents has risen by 36 to 954.

Eighteen incidents were reported in Daltons Lane, South Shields, during May.Eighteen incidents were reported in Daltons Lane, South Shields, during May.
Eighteen incidents were reported in Daltons Lane, South Shields, during May.

This accounts for more than 48 per cent of the overall 1,955 crimes logged across the borough’s three policing neighbourhoods.

Northumbria Police have again said the figures should be viewed in context following the introduction of social distancing restrictions triggered by the pandemic.

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They also insist they “will continue to take a proactive approach in tackling pockets of disorder”.

Holder House Way, in South Shields, where 16 complaints were made.Holder House Way, in South Shields, where 16 complaints were made.
Holder House Way, in South Shields, where 16 complaints were made.

A force spokesman said: “We would continue to ask everyone to follow the modified regulations.

“Personal responsibility is now key. We all have a responsibility to respect our communities and our fellow citizens and we must not undermine everything we have sacrificed during lockdown.”

May’s overall figure for reported crime across South Tyneside, 1,955, is 100 cases higher than April’s 1,855 total and 237 cases higher than the 1,718 incidents recorded in May 2019.

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The 954 instances of anti-social behaviour recorded in May compares to 412 cases 12 months previously.

Anti-social behaviour was then responsible for less than a quarter of all crimes reported across the borough.

The Northumbria Police spokesperson added: “We understand the corrosive and harmful impact that anti-social behaviour committed by a minority of individuals can have on the communities we serve.

“As a result, we will continue to take a proactive approach in tackling pockets of disorder and work closely with partners to ensure hotspot areas are identified and those responsible are appropriately dealt with.”

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