Recent initiatives by Dorset Police have put the spotlight on community safety and responsible behavior, with actions aimed at tackling anti-social behavior, enhancing road safety, and preventing bike theft.
On January 4, two men were issued section 35 dispersal notices by officers patrolling Blandford. These individuals were reportedly causing disruption due to drunkenness within a licensed establishment, prompting police action. A spokesperson for Dorset Police stated, "Two males were issued section 35 dispersal notices this evening due to their antisocial behaviour and drunkenness whilst in a licensed premises in Blandford." This action is part of Blandford's Neighbourhood Policing Team's (NPT) regular efforts to maintain peace and respect among patrons. The spokesperson added, "Blandford NPT use this tool frequently with good effect. Please come and enjoy the establishments in Blandford, but drink responsibly and extend respect to others."
Under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, section 35 allows the police to require individuals to leave an area where they have caused harassment, alarm, or distress to others. This dispersal can last from 12 to 48 hours, and breaching such notices can lead to arrest. With these measures, the police hope to create safer environments for all community members.
Meanwhile, Dorset’s police and crime commissioner, David Sidwick, is advocating for serious legal reforms targeting drink and drug drivers involved in fatal accidents. Currently, such offenders face charges of 'causing death by dangerous driving', but Sidwick believes this does not deter reckless behavior sufficiently. He has urged the government to introduce charges of manslaughter for these offenders. "A vehicle is a weapon when in the wrong hands, the hands of someone who is intoxicated and does not have full control of themselves, or the vehicle they are driving," Sidwick remarked.
This plea follows somber instances on Dorset roads, including the tragic case of Jessica Berry, who was sentenced to eight years and eight months for the death of cyclist James Raeburn, after having been over double the legal drink drive limit. Another incident involved Tyrone Franklin, who received 11 years for killing 16-year-old Billy Lardner at speeds exceeding 80 mph, also under the influence of alcohol.
Sidwick called on every driver to take personal responsibility for their actions, emphasizing the importance of accountability: "While Dorset Police will continue to do all they can to remove drink and drug drivers from the roads and maintain appropriate education and sanctions, they can only do so much. It is up to each and every driver to take responsibility for their own behaviour and actions behind the wheel. I hope tougher punishment for those who flout the law will send a clear message. This mindless recklessness will not be tolerated."
Alongside these efforts, Dorset Police are also promoting bike security to combat bike theft—a growing concern for many cyclists. Recently, officers from Dorchester organized bike marking events, allowing local cyclists to have their bikes registered on BikeRegister, the national bicycle database. Police pointed out the practical benefits of this initiative: "This afternoon I visited the village of Sydling St Nicholas and completed some security bike marking with BikeRegister. While it does not prevent bikes from being stolen or lost, it enables police to reunite them with their owners if found."
The Dorchester team marked 20 bikes during the most recent event, reitering the importance of securing such property: "Your local Neighbourhood Policing Team do run bike marking events from time to time so please keep your eyes open for advertised dates." The initiative reflects a proactive approach to assisting the public, aiming to prevent theft and promote safer biking practices throughout Dorset.
These recent activities by Dorset Police underline their commitment to fostering safer communities through varied and strategic initiatives, from addressing alcohol-related issues to aiding bike security efforts. Public engagement remains integral, as community members are encouraged to cooperate and participate actively for enhanced safety.