Officers in Folkestone ensure safer socialising

Extra police were on the streets of Folkestone last week helping those socialising in the town to have a safe night out.

The town's licensing officer PC Alistair Pringle and drugs dog Hudson and his handler were among the resources brought in on the evening of Friday 5 April 2024.

The drugs dog was taken into pubs and venues around the town centre, leading to the seizure of suspected illegal drugs and the issuing of three community resolutions.

Arrest

A 31-year-old woman was also arrested in Harbour Way on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply after officers seized suspected drugs, cash and phones. She was later bailed while enquiries continue.

Officers also engaged with bar staff, security staff and customers, explaining what they were doing and why they were there.

Positive response

During the evening, officers were called to the Tontine Street area following a report of teenagers swinging on a car park barrier. The group were located, spoken to and identified and an investigation into criminal damage is ongoing.

Concerns were also raised about the welfare of a man in The Leas area. He was located by patrols and officers made sure he was safe.

Detective Inspector James Wyles, of Folkestone Community Safety Unit, said: 'Kent Police is determined to crack down on anti-social behaviour and late-night issues in our town centres and I hope the extra presence in Folkestone last week prevented offences taking place.

'The response to both the drugs dog visits and extra patrols was overwhelmingly positive, with people pleased to see us out and about, keeping them safe.'