New CCTV Cameras Installed During Week of Action

A week of action in the Netherfields area, carried out by police and partner agencies in response to increased reports of crime and antisocial behaviour, has seen the introduction of nine new CCTV cameras to help tackle issues.

As reports of incidents appear to be reducing and partnership work continues in the area, officers are hopeful that the new cameras are yet another tool to help bring down the number of incidents even further.

During a week of action in the area beginning on Monday 23^rd April, there was engagement activity at Vaughan shops and the local schools, enforcement notices issued, eleven Antisocial Behaviour Contracts (ABCs) issued, local pizza shops have agreed not to serve anyone under the age of 18 without an adult present – this has been clearly displayed in the relevant shops, and a property marking event was held which proved successful with good attendance.

Thirteen housing had already been in touch with families in the area to issue warnings to any tenants who have children who have been involved in the antisocial behaviour.

Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Chris Hartshorne, said: “We have been responding to reports of increased crime and antisocial behaviour in the Netherfields area alongside our partners for a number of weeks now, and we are starting to see the number of incidents coming down.

“Whilst the number of incidents means less victims and this is what we all want, we are not complacent and following the week of action our work will continue alongside partners to ensure that residents can live in the area without fear or worry.

“Over the last week there has been lots of engagement carried out at Vaughan Shops with residents and schools, we have linked in with 130 school children and the council have secured nine new 24/7 CCTV cameras covering the area. These cameras should act as not only a visual deterrent, but they can also help us gather evidence to help with prosecutions in the event of any further incidents.”

A Middlesbrough Council spokesman said: “Crime and antisocial behaviour can blight whole neighbourhoods, but this week of action is a great example of what can be achieved through close working with our partners and the local community.

“We will continue to use all powers at our disposal to resolve these issues, and urge members of the public and businesses to report problems to us so they can be dealt with quickly and effectively.”

Thirteen’s antisocial behaviour resolution lead Luke Metcalfe said: “We want our customers to feel safe in their homes, so following the week of action, we hope that the local community in Netherfields feels reassured, as we are taking action and progressing with tenancy enforcement where it’s necessary.

“We’ll continue to work closely with partner agencies to tackle reports of antisocial behaviour, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our customers.”