Police targeting anti-social behaviour hot spots

The operation is targeting persistent offenders in Gloucester

Police are cracking on anti-social behaviour hotspots in Gloucester this summer.

Operation Ebrius returned in May after a successful campaign last year.

Gloucestershire Police said officers are patrolling the city centre taking a 'zero-tolerance' approach to alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

Support agencies are offering help with housing, drug and alcohol problems where needed.

The operation, which will run until September, involves Solace, a partnership between Gloucester City Council, Cheltenham Borough Council and the police aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour.

Last year members of the Solace team were able to obtain several Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions, allowing them to ban repeat offenders from certain areas.

In 2023, 563 bottles and cans were confiscated, and this year's operation will also focus on confiscating alcohol.

The force said Operation Ebrius was a success last year

Inspector Ash Gardner, from Gloucestershire Constabulary, said Operation Ebrius was a "fantastic example" of the partnership working to tackle anti-social behaviour.

He said the force is sending a message to "persistent" offenders that it "will not tolerate" anyone intent on causing harm.

He added "Those who live, work and visit our city have a right to enjoy a safe and pleasant environment."

Steve Lindsay is the manager of Gloucester City Safe, a group of local businesses working to help reduce anti-social behaviour.

He said the operation is making a positive difference.

"It was clear something needed to be done to address the feedback from the business community and visitors to our city," he said.