Dispersal order imposed across city centre

A dispersal order has come into force in Lichfield as police take action against anti-social behaviour.

Staffordshire Police said it had seen an increase in reports of incidents "particularly involving large groups of young people" gathering and being abusive or causing disruption.

Further reports include cannabis use, disorder, criminal damage and people using e-scooters or e-bikes, a force spokesperson added.

The dispersal order covers the city centre and surrounding area, between St Chad's Road, Western Bypass, Gaia Lane and Birmingham Road.

It came into effect at 15:00 BST on Tuesday and will remain in force until the same time on Thursday.

The order gives police the power to disperse anyone in the specified area to reduce the likelihood of crimes being committed, including people being harassed.

Anyone failing to comply would be committing a criminal offence, police said, and further legal action could be taken.

Officers could also return anyone under 16 years old to their home address, the spokesperson added.

Insp Melissa Byrne said: "We don't take this type of behaviour lightly and we know that anti-social behaviour and associated criminality is having an effect on local people and businesses."

She urged parents and guardians to make sure young people knew the order was in place and to explain the potential legal consequences of persistent anti-social behaviour.

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