Dorset’s PCC David Sidwick supports the Crime and Policing Bill, aligning with his plans to tackle ASB and knife crime.
The bill addresses antisocial behavior and introduces a new respect order. Police can seize vehicles causing disruptions, and dispersal order times will get longer. Fines will increase for ASB order breaches, as Dorset Police are committed to fighting ASB.
Initiatives helped reduce these crimes; Operation Relentless and Operation Track are examples. “100 Days of Summer” also helped lower crime. Antisocial behavior is the lowest since 2007, with offenses reduced by twelve percent last year. Mr. Sidwick welcomes the police help.
ASB causes harm to people and communities. It is vital to take anti-social behaviour seriously and robust police powers are vital.
The bill also covers knife crime, allowing police to seize knives held privately if they believe the knives lead to violence. Penalties for certain weapons will increase, including making or selling them.
A new offense involves possessing a knife, with the intent to use unlawful violence counting, too. While knife crime rates are low in Dorset now, reducing these crimes remains a significant priority. Mr. Sidwick wants more knives off the streets and away from dangerous people specifically.
The PCC pushes for a violence reduction unit, desiring early intervention programs. He aims to prevent future knife crime in Dorset, not wanting to wait for a bigger problem later, and promises to continue to fund current initiatives.