Operation Prostock extended following positive feedback

An operation to tackle antisocial behaviour, crime and drug dealing in Stockton town centre has been extended following positive feedback from the public.

Operation Prostock was launched last month and saw dedicated officers from Stockton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) carry out extra foot patrols in and around Stockton High Street.

The operation will now run from 13^th December to January next year in a bid to deter criminals and reassure the community that officers are listening to their concerns.

Sergeant Mitch Baldwin from the Stockton Neighbourhood Police Team said: “We’ve heard from business owners that the extra patrols have made a big difference and have had a real positive impact on the town.

“This is the type of neighbourhood policing we do every day across Stockton but by ensuring we have a more visible police presence in the town centre we’re providing that reassurance to the community and making it a place criminals no longer want to go to.

“I’d like to thank our partner agencies including the local authority for their support as well as local businesses for engaging and working with us to help make Stockton a better place to live and work.”

Councillor Norma Stephenson, Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety, said: “The protection of our residents, businesses and visitors is of absolute importance and it’s crucial that those living and working in Stockton continue to feel safe.

“We know that crime and antisocial behaviour are still major concerns for our residents. Operation Prostock is a great way of supporting our continued commitment and efforts towards ensuring our town centre is a place where people want to come and visit.”

Anyone with information or concerns about crime or antisocial behaviour in their area is urged to contact Cleveland Police on 101.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phone on 0800 555 111.

 

Sgt Mitch Baldwin in Stockton town centre