Operation Equinox 2009

Historically, from 22nd September - the official date of the autumnal Equinox  when the long dark nights start drawing in, heralds a period of increased anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in Redcar and Cleveland.

Operation Equinox was first undertaken in 2008 and proved to be a great success reducing both crime and anti-social behaviour on the previous year.  The operation attracted a prestigious regional Tilley Award and will be showcased as part of a National Conference to be held in Bolton during October.

Equinox is led by the multi agency 'Safer Communities Partnership Anti Social Behaviour Group' under the Chair of Chief Inspector Chris Sadler.  The Group's membership includes Police, Local Authority, Coast and Country Housing, Fire Brigade and Safe in Tees Valley.  The Operation is also supported by a wide variety of community groups including Neighbourhood Watch and Community Crime Fighters.

A pre launch briefing for partners and public took place at Cleveland Police HQ last week and signalled an even stronger joint approach to tackling the issues this year.

The theme this year is getting 'in deep' to tackle anti-social behaviour.  Chief Inspector Sadler said:  "It is not possible to solve these problems through a single approach so we have developed a strategy around four pillars:- Diversion, Education, Enforcement and Prevention.  We will be delivering all of these pillars through Operation Equinox between now and the 9th of November.

"During September and October the main approach will be around Education, with Neighbourhood Officers visiting schools and engaging with young people on the street along with out reach work and Operation Stay Safe.  As mid October is reached the levels of diversionary activity will increase along enforcement.  On key dates and in 'hot spot' locations there will be ruthless enforcement and the targeting of identified prolific offenders."

Added Police Authority Chair Councillor Dave McLuckie, who is also Redcar and Cleveland Council's Cabinet Member for Community Protection:  "The message from Operation Equinox for the public is that all the partners involved are determined to do everything possible to tackle the kind of problems which cause so much concern to local communities in the area and which often increase during this particular time of the year.

"The message to those who indulge in this kind of anti-social and criminal activity is that we will be taking a very tough approach, especially with those individuals we know have a record for causing trouble."

Operation Equinox begins today and will end on the 9th of November.