Police carry out nearly sixty stop and searches in Newbury
It follows a violent incident in the town last week
Last updated 20th Sep 2023
Thames Valley Police say they carried out nearly sixty stop and searches after giving themselves extra powers following a violent incident in the town.
Following a Section 60 order they say they have charged two men and arrested a further four people.
After an incident of violence around Dickens Walk on Thursday (14/9), a Section 60 order was enacted. This order was extended on Friday (15/9) and expired at 12pm on Saturday (16/9).
Jake Bozarth, aged 18, of Newtown Road, Newbury and Jake Blanford, aged 18, of Dickens Walk, Newbury were both charged with one count of GBH.
Both men have been remanded in custody and are due to appear at court at a date to be confirmed.
One man, aged 21, was arrested on suspicion of GBH and bailed until 8 December while investigations continue.
Two others, a 13-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man, were arrested on suspicion of GBH and bailed until 4 December while investigations continue.
A 20-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a constable, and has been cautioned.
Inspector Alan Hawkett, based at Newbury police station, said:
“We are committed to supporting our communities and keeping everyone safe.
“While I understand that a Section 60 order may sound alarming, the enhanced stop and search powers provides us with another tactic to quickly identify and disrupt incidents of violence in the area.
“Officers who are out and about following a Section 60 order are there to reassure you as well as using their powers.
“A total of 57 stop searches were made while the order was in place.
“I would like to thank the local community for their support and patience while this Section 60 was in operation.”
A Section 60 order can only be put in place in a defined area at a specific time when a senior officer believes there is a possibility of serious violence, or weapons being carried.
The order temporarily enhances powers for officers, meaning they can stop and search anyone in a designated.