St Stephen's

Antisocial behaviour - general.

Since 1 April 2026, there have been 8 reports of antisocial behaviour in the area, most of which involved young people being seen carrying catapults. Antisocial behaviour includes actions that cause nuisance, alarm or distress to others and can have a negative impact on the local community. In response, officers have carried out regular high-visibility patrols to provide reassurance to residents and deter further incidents. CCTV footage has also been reviewed in an effort to identify those involved, although enquiries have not yet resulted in any positive identifications. Officers have additionally carried out a number of stop and searches as part of efforts to prevent further incidents and address concerns raised by the community. Police will continue to patrol the area and take appropriate action to help keep local residents safe.

Catapults.

Since April, there have been 3 reports involving young people carrying or using catapults in the area. In response, officers have carried out stop and searches in the locations highlighted by the community and increased high-visibility patrols to help deter further incidents. A stop and search is a police power that allows officers to search a person for prohibited items or evidence of criminal activity when legal grounds exist. These patrols and enforcement activities aim to provide reassurance to residents, prevent further incidents and help keep the area safe. Officers will continue to monitor the situation and respond to any concerns raised by the community.

Nuisance motorcycles.

The only issue raised with the local neighbourhood officer has related to the council-supported Beryl bike scheme in Canterbury. Residents have reported concerns about hire bikes being left in unsuitable locations after use, which can cause inconvenience and create obstructions in public spaces. The local officer has spoken with a representative from the company, who confirmed that staff regularly check for incorrectly parked bikes and arrange for them to be collected and moved where necessary. The bikes are fitted with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, which allows the company to monitor their locations and identify bikes that have been left in inappropriate places. Officers will continue to work with the company and local partners to address any concerns raised by the community.