POLICE patrols have been increased in Weymouth and Christchurch as part of an operation targeting anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Dorset Police officers are out and about in communities as part of the Government’s Anti-social Behaviour Action Plan, launched last year.

As part of the plan, extra resources have been given to allow uniformed police officers to spend time in problem areas.

The new funding comes with guidance about the types of crimes that should be used to identify areas to target – including street drinking and vehicle related ASB.

The force used crime data from the last few years to identify places where these issues have been reported regularly to target patrols precisely.

Chief Superintendent Heather Dixey said: “Dorset Police is committed to creating and maintaining a safe county for everyone.

“However, these dedicated patrols are just one part of the equation to reducing crime in the hotspots.

“Reports from the public help us to understand what and where crime is happening in our communities – if we don’t know about it, we can’t put a stop to it.

“Please continue to make reports to the police because your reports will directly influence the work that we do.

“Our officers will use dispersal powers to direct people away from hotspots if they act in an anti-social manner. Repeated ASB by individuals may lead to further action including Community Protection Notices and Criminal Behaviour Orders.”

Hotspot policing patrols got underway on Tuesday (April 2) in areas including Weymouth, Bournemouth and Christchurch.

Meanwhile, residents can find out more about their neighbourhood policing team and community contact events at www.dorset.police.uk/area/your-area.