In a successful culmination of the festive campaign Operation Dasher, police officers in Swindon made almost two dozen arrests as part of a proactive initiative targeting antisocial behaviour during the Christmas period.
The month-long operation aimed to enhance public safety, particularly in the town centre, by conducting high visibility patrols and collaborating with local partners, including the council and Pubwatch.
Throughout December, the campaign resulted in:
- 22 Arrests: Officers took decisive action, making 22 arrests to address various criminal activities and maintain a secure environment for residents and businesses.
- 39 Crimes Dealt With: The campaign addressed a total of 39 reported crimes, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proactive measures in tackling antisocial behaviour.
- 9 Warrant Locates: The initiative successfully located and apprehended nine individuals wanted on warrant, contributing to the resolution of outstanding legal matters.
- 1 Recall to Prison: Officers located and dealt with one person wanted on recall to prison
- 32 Section 35 Dispersal Orders: A total of 32 Section 35 dispersal orders were enacted, strategically targeting and reducing instances of antisocial behaviour, nuisance begging, and thefts.
- 78 Intelligence Reports: Officers submitted 78 intelligence reports, enabling response and neighbourhood teams to gather comprehensive insights into the local situation in Swindon.
Acting Inspector Winter, expressed satisfaction with the campaign’s outcomes, stating, “It’s been a successful month with many arrests made and crimes dealt with, while several people who featured in our ‘Wanted this Winter’ campaign were located with the support of the public.”
“The frequent and effective use of Section 35 dispersal orders in the town has also enabled us to target and reduce antisocial behaviour, nuisance begging and thefts.
“Officers also submitted a significant number of intelligence reports which allows our response and neighbourhood teams to build a full picture of what is happening on the ground in Swindon.
“I hope this work has led to an enjoyable and safe shopping and leisure experience for people visiting the town.”
While Operation Dasher has concluded, the commitment to creating Safer Public Spaces remains a priority for the police force.
Swindon officers continue to conduct regular patrols in hot spot areas to ensure ongoing public safety.
