Across the Isle Wight, the number of reported anti-social behaviour incidents has reduced by almost 20 per cent in the first month of a police campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour.
 
Calls regarding criminal damage, vehicle nuisance and rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour have all dropped across Hampshire and the Isle Wight since July 1, 2009 compared to the same period last year.
 
During July 2008, there was a total of 11,546 incidents relating to anti-social behaviour. In July 2009 this has reduced to 9,381 incidents across the force, a reduction of 2,165.
 
Across the force the detection figure for criminal damage incidents has also risen by almost 4 per cent.
 
The campaign lead Superintendent David Hardcastle said:

“Tackling anti-social behaviour is the priority for Hampshire Constabulary during the summer months and we have been using all our resources to reassure the public and to reduce the number of incidents.
 
“We aim to continue to reduce the number of incidents compared to the same period last year, which historically is when we see a rise in anti-social behaviour.”

As part of this initiative extra police officers and staff have been out on patrol targeting particular hotspot areas which are affected by anti-social behaviour.
 
All sections of the force are working as one team during this three month initiative including police officers and staff who aren’t usually involved in frontline policing.
 
Residents should report any incidents of anti-social behaviour by calling 101.