Christmas crackdown on alcohol-related crime
Police in Bridgend are asking Christmas revellers to drink and behave responsibly ahead of one of the busiest weekends of the year for pubs and clubs.
Officers will be taking a no-nonsense approach towards incidents of alcohol-related violence and anti-social behaviour in the town centre over the festive period.
Local police will be working alongside partner agencies as part of the successful Operation Raven, in order to ensure revellers have a safe and enjoyable time when out celebrating.
Bridgend Policing Team, the Safer Bridgend Community Safety Partnership and the Public Protection Department at Bridgend County Borough Council formed Operation Raven to tackle issues within the late night economy in Bridgend town centre.
The team’s efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in the number of assaults, with Home Office figures predicting savings of over one million pound to the public, and a further £100,000 in policing costs.
Bridgend Local Policing Inspector Paul Tinkler said: “Alcohol-related crime and disorder has a detrimental effect on the quality of life of residents in the borough, and also the lives of people who are out socialising responsibly".
"Alongside our partners, police in Bridgend will be here to support those who wish to enjoy the festivities. We will, however, take a no-nonsense approach to any incidents of violence or anti-social behaviour, and will deal firmly with individuals who flout the law or act in an anti-social manner and jeopardise the safety of others”.
The local activity reinforces a force-wide seasonal safety campaign entitled Don’t Have a Nightmare This Christmas. Adverts have been put up in local pubs and clubs to reinforce the initiative’s serious message, and a range of Christmas safety advice can be found on the campaign website www.donthaveanightmare.org.uk.