An operation to target criminals operating in Swindon over the festive period is already proving to be a success.
Operation Dasher is a high visibility policing operation held in the town every year in December, with officers conducting patrols in the town centre and out of town shopping locations focusing on the daytime economy and extended late-night business opening hours.
Section 35 dispersal orders have been authorised for the town centre to tackle anti-social behaviour and the risk of crime being committed. In the last week, 10 individuals have been dispersed from the town centre using this power.
PC Paul Bezzant said: “The busy Christmas period often sees an increased footfall and with it the risk of an increase in crime and anti-social behaviour, so the use of this power on 10 different occasions has had a positive impact in reducing anti-social behaviour and as a result, we have seen no repeat offending from those dispersed from the area.’
“We’ve also made a number of arrests as a result of our increased patrols of shopping areas and I hope that our presence has led to members of our community feeling confident and safe when out and about enjoying the festivities.”
On December 10, a 21-year-old woman was detained at Superdrug after staff observed a theft taking place through the inSwindon DaySafe network. The woman was searched and makeup products were located. The woman was subject to a community resolution.
Luca Chrystal, 20, of Spring Close, was arrested and later charged with two counts of theft from JD Sports and Wilko. Chrystal was fined £200 for both incidents, and ordered to pay £34 to victim services and £85 to the CPS.
Brian Foreman, 39, of Thirlmere, Liden, was arrested and later charged with theft from Boots in Greenbridge on December 11 – he is due at Swindon Magistrates Court on January 12.
Gareth Fanning, 36, of Frobisher Drive, was arrested on December 6 and charged with theft from The Entertainer in the town centre and breaching his Criminal Behaviour Order. He was given an 18-week prison sentence suspended for two years, ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work and to pay a victim surcharge of £128.
A 38-year-old woman was also arrested on December 13 by officers on Op Dasher patrols in the town centre. The woman was wanted in connection with theft offences.
PC Bezzant added: “We will continue our patrols of the busy shopping areas in Swindon as we get closer to Christmas day, and we hope that by working closely with partners that our local businesses and the public are protected from criminals this time of year.
“We will continue to support retail and transport staff in engaging with the public around the ongoing Covid-19 guidance and rules on face coverings as part of Operation Dasher.”
