Extra Police patrols after anti-social behaviour
Officers go 'proactive' after trouble around Downton and Redlynch
Last updated 16th Jan 2022
Patrols have been 'beefed-up' by Wiltshire Police in and around Downton after serious concerns were raised about ongoing antisocial behaviour.
Salisbury Police posted on Facebook Friday night announcing that officers had been brought in from other departments to carry out patrols in Downton and Redlynch.
PC Douglas said:
"You may see an increased presence of officers on foot or in vehicles. We are joined by our colleagues from the Rural Crime Team, Traffic and our Dog Unit. Hampshire Police are also patrolling on the Fordingbridge side of the border also."
There has been a recent spate, plus ongoing problems with anti-social behaviour in the area. The village and surrounding areas have been plagued with incidents involving catapults with vehicles and property targeted over the last two years.
This trouble, criminality, damage, and vandalism has led to further discussions about introducing a ban on catapults being carried in public in Downton. Wiltshire Council looking at introducing a Public Space Protection Order.
Last month three windows on a Salisbury Reds bus with school children on board were broken after a catapult was fired at it.
Leader Richard Clewer, who is also the councillor for Downton and Ebble ward, says it's been requested by Police. He's raised the issues locals have been enduring with the force and the Police and Crime Commissioner and says it's vital residents keep reporting any concerns:
"In my view the only way that we are going to make headway over criminal damage and anti social behaviour is to continue to report every incident, provide the police with any relevant CCTV and to make Downton a hostile environment to this sort of behaviour. If evidence is gathered then the police will be able to proceed with prosecutions."
"I have been assured that the police will always review all reports and if deemed part of a series or if they identify a possible line of investigation, the team will seek to carry that out."