A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour and problem drinking in Worcester has been extended after business owners and residents praised its success.
Operation Spartacus, which started on October 21, was originally a four-week scheme with extra police patrols sent out to tackle street drinking, aggressive begging and other problems in the city.
But police have now decided to keep the dedicated patrols and also hold ‘action days’ to raise awareness for an indefinite period.
Over the four weeks, officers made 54 alcohol seizures, issued 14 dispersal orders, eight summons to court and 14 arrests for anti-social behaviour.
Richard Greenway, of Greenway Landscape Architects in Lowesmoor, had previously said he had ‘serious concerns’ with street drinkers but was thrilled with the impact Operation Spartacus has had.
“I have not had any incidents and I am not aware of people congregating here like they used to,” he said.
“I haven’t seen anyone taking drugs or drinking in the day, and no one has been tapping on my window, which previously happened.
“It’s clear from just what I have seen that the police have done a good job, the time and effort they have put into this have got good results.
“I am very grateful for what they have done and I think it shows that operations like this can severely reduce the problem of street drinking and drug abuse in the city.”
One Lowesmoor resident, who did not want to be named, was also delighted with the police presence in the last month.
“The street drinking was on a daily frequent basis,” she said. “We are strong women but still find ourselves being intimidated by these people.
“Three years ago I felt so bad that I shouldn’t be living here, it was as though it was their right, I felt a little bit isolated and a little bit trapped.”
PC Alex Denny, who organised the operation, said: “I think it has gone really well and I am humbled with the response and feedback we have had from residents and colleagues.
“There has been a noticeable decline in aggressive begging and street drinkers within the area and we are very very pleased with the impact it has had.
“We are going to continue it within Worcester day to day so when possible we will have action days specifically for the issue and I would encourage people to continue reporting any matters to us so we can address them.”
