Crime and anti-social incidents

Unfortunately, the number of crimes and incidents of anti-social behaviour are on the increase across The Village, with the Warden team responding to and de-escalating a range of issues.   

The number of cases of drug usage, dealing drugs and nitrous oxide usage have increased, with the area around the cricket pavilion remaining a venue of choice for usage and the car parks being used for dealing.  The Police have attended, following up with some of the known individuals and have engaged with CBCT with recommendations for deterrent lighting around the pavilion.  Experience informs us that crime and anti-social behaviour increases with drug and nitrous oxide usage. 

Other incidents this year have included vehicle thefts, targeted harassment, and intimidation of residents at their properties including attempted forced entry, the pouring and lighting of petrol on roads within the development and an attempt to pour petrol on the Warden Hut.   Lesser anti-social incidents have included damage to the playground, groups of youths involved in threatening behaviour and damage to street signage. 

The Wardens will intervene where they deem it safe to do so, and they will monitor and film incidents where it is deemed unsafe, contacting the Police where they witness crimes directly. The Wardens are frequently targeted with abuse and threats of violence and have recently been assaulted as they have gone about their work. 

To assist the Wardens and help ensure Police responses, as well as informing the Warden of any incidents, it is essential that residents also contact the Police themselves and do not rely on the Warden team to report incidents. The Police have been very clear that residents need to be contacting them directly.  Use 999 if you are a victim of or witness a crime and only then contact the Wardens.  Other incidents should be reported by calling 101.  

The Wardens also appreciate an email or voicemail outside their normal working hours (3pm to midnight) advising them of anything unusual so that they can follow up when they are on duty.  01883 770611 / villagewarden@gmail.com