Reduction in antisocial behaviour following hotspot patrols in Tunbridge Wells

Levels of antisocial behaviour in Tunbridge Wells have fallen following targeted patrols of hotspot areas.

Over the past five months, reports of violence linked to town centre pubs and bars have also decreased by around a third.

Hotspot policing is in operation across several parts of Tunbridge Wells, including in parks, busy retail areas and rural locations. It focuses resources to specific places where crime or antisocial behaviour is known to take place.

Tackling abuse

District Commander, Chief Inspector Stuart Paul, said:

‘It is encouraging to see that between April and August 2024 incidents of antisocial behaviour across the Tunbridge Wells district have decreased by almost 18 per cent compared to the previous year (down from 809 to 667). ‘We know our hotspot patrols are making a difference and are helping to address a number of concerns, some of which have been caused by a small minority of people in the town centre and St John’s area. 'This has included the abuse of staff at shops and takeaways and only recently a teenage suspect was arrested in connection with an assault on an employee at a fast-food premises in Grosvenor Road. He is currently bailed to a youth court on 10 October.’  

Women's safety

Analysis of police data and intelligence is helping to specifically identify where antisocial behaviour hotspots are.

This analysis also directs officers to where and when there are likely to be issues often arising from alcohol consumption.

Chief Insp Paul added: ‘Tunbridge Wells remains a popular destination for people to socialise at night and by using hotspot patrols we are working to prevent and reduce disturbances and assaults and also provide a greater focus around the safety of women and girls. 'It is really reassuring to see, therefore, that during the same five-month period incidents of violence linked to the town’s night time economy have also fallen - by almost 30 per cent (down from 84 to 59).’

Hotspot patrolling includes officers proactively attending locations where there have been reports of nuisance driving, such as the Crescent Road car park.

Tackling shoplifting also remains a key focus and on 22 September, a known offender was deterred by a patrol from returning to a service station in St John’s Road, where he had committed several previous offences.

He saw the police presence and left the garage forecourt area, without entering the store.   

Reporting issues remains vital  

Chief Insp Paul said: ’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. 'We also continue to urge residents to report any incidents to us. This is so important, as it helps build an accurate picture of where there may be persistent problems.’