The residents of Barnham in West Sussex are living in fear due to a group of uncontrollable teenagers causing havoc in their quiet village. An emergency meeting was called to address the situation, particularly after a disturbing incident at the local train station where a group of girls assaulted an emergency worker. Four girls were arrested on various charges, including possession of cannabis. Additionally, nine people have been banned from a local store due to theft, with five more in the process of being banned.
Local residents expressed their fear of leaving their homes due to the ongoing issues with these teenagers, prompting a response from Sussex Police. More than 200 people attended the meeting, where concerns were raised about the lack of police presence despite a dispersal order being in force. Sussex Police has confirmed that over a dozen arrests have been made, with several banning orders issued as part of their efforts to combat anti-social behavior in the area. Operation Precinct, launched in February, aims to address the rise in youth crime and anti-social behavior in Barnham and neighboring areas.
Detective Sergeant Lou Baileff acknowledged the impact the recent behavior has had on the community and assured residents that measures are being taken to address the situation. Sussex Police is using a combination of enforcement and engagement activities, including Community Protection Warnings and dispersal orders, to combat crime in the area. Proactive patrols are being conducted to deter criminals and reassure the community. Increased offenses related to people traveling to Barnham from other areas prompted collaborative efforts with British Transport Police to deploy rail enforcement officers to the Barnham Railway Station.
Residents are encouraged to report any anti-social behavior and criminal activity to Sussex Police to aid in their efforts to tackle the issue head-on. The force is committed to utilizing all available policing powers, including out-of-court disposals through the Youth Offending Team. Furthermore, Parkdean has launched staycation deals starting from £89 to provide residents with options for leisure amidst these troubling circumstances. Despite the challenges presented by problematic teenagers, the community is working together with law enforcement to restore peace and safety in Barnham.
