Dispersal order in place for Halloween

Police are imposing a dispersal order around Hertford town centre tonight, as part of efforts to deter anti-social behaviour linked to Halloween.

The section 35 order will be in place from 4pm on Tuesday 31st October until 4am on Wednesday 1st November.

The order will protect members of the public by deterring those who use Halloween as an excuse to commit crime and disorder.

Under the order, officers can direct anyone to leave the specified area (shown on the map) immediately. Failing to do so is a criminal offence and could result in an arrest. Anyone aged under 16 can be taken home to parents/guardians.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mark Collins, from the Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "In 2022, we received an increased number of calls regarding anti-social behaviour and crime involving young people.

"In addition, officers had fireworks thrown at them and two officers were injured as they attempted to seize fireworks from people aged under 18.

"This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated – either towards members of the public or to our officers who are simply out doing their job.

"The order is being put in place to help protect members of the public from the small minority who use Halloween as an excuse to commit crime and disorder. Additional officers will also be on duty and carrying out proactive patrols."