Anti-social behaviour cases on the decline in Westbury

THIS year’s crime statistics have shown an almost 30% drop in anti-social behaviour in Westbury, as well as nearly 10% less vehicle crime.

The figures revealed at July’s town council meeting reflected an overall rise in crime in the town since June 2013. However, the most notable change was the falling number of anti-social behaviour incidents.

The report showed 437 reported incidents; a 28.9% fall from the previous year’s 615.

Community beat manager Gavin Hucks said, “I’m happy with our progress, but there’s still plenty of work to be done. Anti-social behaviour is always something we’re working on because it’s always an issue. We combat anti-social behaviour by getting out on the street as much as possible, as well as working closely with the council and schools. It’s important to try and build a rapport with young people so they feel that officers are approachable. The last thing we want to do is incriminate them.”