Large falls in antisocial behaviour across Tonbridge and Malling

Levels of antisocial behaviour in Tonbridge have fallen by almost a third in a year. 

Proactive hotspot patrols continue to clampdown on issues and concerns linked to the High Street, retail parks and other public spaces.

Between February 2023 and January 2024 there were 297 reports of antisocial behaviour in and around the town centre.

For the latest year, up until the end of January 2025, this figure had fallen to 216.

Chief Inspector Mark Stubberfield said:

‘Hotspot policing focuses resources to specific places where crime or antisocial behaviour is known to take place and has resulted in more than 500 intelligence led patrols across the town in the last six months. 'These have included officers responding to disorder linked to pubs and takeaways, as well as concerns including car meets in nearby East Peckham. ‘Efforts by our officers and PCSOs to positively engage with young people in Tonbridge are also being assisted by the Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport. 'A 12-week action plan will include help from the Tonbridge Amateur Boxing Association, which will run sessions with children encouraging fitness, discipline and team building skills.’

Beat officers have been using their patrols to also speak to women and girls in Tonbridge as part of ongoing work to further enhance their safety.

Constables have been gathering responses from passing pedestrians to highlight any concerns they may have, including areas with poor street lighting, CCTV, as well as locations where people would like to see an increased police presence.

Enforcement in and around Snodland

The focus on safety towards women and girls is also incorporated into proactive patrols in Snodland, where encouraging reductions in antisocial behaviour have also been achieved.

Reported incidents of antisocial behaviour have fallen by 33 per cent over the past year, from 263 to 175. 

Chief Insp Stubberfield added:

‘Our officers and PCSOs will continue to patrol known antisocial behaviour hotspots to prevent, identify and arrest those responsible for thefts, assaults, and often mindless damage to property. 'Proactive hotspot patrols in Snodland include retail areas in the vicinity of Holborough Road, where concerns have been linked to large gatherings and noise from nuisance vehicles. 'Enforcement powers such as dispersal orders, have recently resulted in 14 warning letters sent to registered keepers of cars. A repeat of antisocial behaviour can also result in vehicles being seized and destroyed.’

Report antisocial behaviour

Residents are urged to report any incidents of antisocial behaviour to Kent Police.

This helps build an accurate picture of where there may be persistent problems.