Neighbourhood Policing Team help resolve anti-social behaviour in Offley

A derelict building in Hitchin Rural which became an anti-social hotspot has been secured after the intervention of the North Herts Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

In what is #NeighbourhoodPolicingWeek (22-28 January), we are highlighting the varied work the NPT is involved with.

The former Offley Oriental building was attracting people who were using the outbuildings situated on the land as places to engage in anti-social behaviour by causing damage to the buildings, smoking cannabis there and dangerously climbing on the roof.

Members of the public reported the issues to NPT officers PC Natasha Redman and PCSO Heather Burrows who worked in partnership with the owners, the parish council and North Herts Council to provide a solution.

PC Redman said: “Every area in Hertfordshire has a locally-based NPT and we focus on local crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) issues.

“When this ASB was reported we worked with various partners, including the property owners and council, to identify ways to resolve the situation.

“Thanks to the owner having taken action, including securing the main building and taking down the outbuildings, we have not had any further issues reported.”

You can report ASB online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

You can use our community voice platform ‘echo’ to let us know what you think we should be prioritising in your area. Your feedback will help towards shaping our local policing priorities, initiatives and campaigns. Visit Echo (opens in a new window) and tell us your thoughts.