Crime maps used to plot yob hotspots

IN a concerted bid to have the right officers in the right place at the right time, Ballymena PSNI analysing maps of where crimes are taking place locally, the Ballymena Times has been told.
By The Newsroom
Published 16th Nov 2011, 09:50 BST

Inspector John Allen, Ballymena Neighbourhood Policing Team explains: “The public play a very important role in helping us to tackle antisocial behaviour by being the eyes and ears of communities. We encourage residents to report all incidents of crime, suspicious behaviour and antisocial behaviour to police immediately so that we can act upon it.

“There was recent coverage of a number of neighbourhoods in Ballymena that were described as being antisocial behaviour hotspots, based on police statistical information.

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“The term ‘hotspot’ is broad and open to interpretation. In some cases, a very slight increase in a number of incidents or crimes reported in an area deems the location to be a ‘hotspot’. This can be the case, even though the overall numbers of incidents are very low, in comparison to other areas within a Borough.

“Over the years we have looked at a number of ways of tackling antisocial behaviour with partner organisations and community groups. For example, diversionary activities and education in schools and youth clubs have been beneficial and we will continue to look at the reasons why antisocial behaviour takes place and who is involved,” said the Inspector.

“Antisocial behaviour remains a priority issue for police and if you have concerns about it in your area, please contact a member of your local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 600 8000. Contact mobile numbers for the Neighbourhood officers can be found on r www.psni.police.uk