Police step up summer patrols in 100 days campaign

The force said officers and PCSOs would be able to use dispersal powers

Dorset Police is introducing extra foot patrols to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour throughout the summer.

The 100 Days of Summer initiative will see police constables and police community support officers (PCSOs) deployed in key areas of Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth.

They will be supported by special constables and designated council patrol officers.

The force said a similar scheme in the Melcombe Regis area of Weymouth had resulted in a significant reduction in reported antisocial behaviour incidents.

It said officers and PCSOs would be able to use dispersal powers or ask people to surrender alcohol if they were behaving in an antisocial manner.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan said: “With longer days and warmer weather, the months of June, July and August are our busiest throughout the year for reports of antisocial behaviour.

“We have listened to concerns of the community regarding anti-social behaviour and have worked hard to reduce this over the past few years, seeing a reduction of 22% over the summer months in reported ASB between 2021 and 2023."