Dispersal order issued for Durham City after anti-social behaviour

It means anyone suspected of being involved in anti-social behaviour (ASB) crime or disorder across the weekend can be asked to leave the city, and arrested if they fail to do so.

The order comes after a reported rise in ASB incidents involving teens as young as 13.

Police confirmed a number of arrests have already been made.

Anyone in the city for legitimate, lawful reasons can continue to enjoy it as normal.

A Durham Police spokesperson said: “We would encourage you to be inquisitive as to where your child is going on an evening. In particular, if you think they are heading to Durham City just to hang around with their mates at the Bus Station or on North Road.

“A number of arrests have already been made and will continue to be made to protect the wider public and stop disruptive people impacting on others.”

“We know it can be difficult to pin your child down to a specific location sometimes but with the age gap between some of the persons involved (between 13 and 20), there is potential for younger persons to be led astray and/or be encouraged to get involved in disruptive behaviour.

“Safeguarding actions and interventions have already been put in place for some but, as the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure.

“If you think your child has or is getting involved in anti-social behaviour, or being led astray and you would like advice or help, then feel free to email durhambeats@durham.police.uk”