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Police and Council Step Up Action on Anti-Social Behaviour

Thursday, 25 September 2025 10:47

West Yorkshire Police and Wakefield Council are intensifying efforts to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour through a joint taskforce and new enforcement measures.

A united crackdown on anti-social behaviour is underway in Wakefield, with West Yorkshire Police, Wakefield Council and partner organisations working together through the Wakefield City ASB Task Force.

The taskforce, launched earlier this year, stepped up activity over the summer under the Government’s Safer Streets initiative. Increased patrols, enforcement powers and community engagement are central to the approach, which aims not only to reduce incidents but also to restore public confidence.

Superintendent Al Travis of Wakefield District Police said:
“The public want visible policing in their communities. We’ve boosted patrols at peak times and are tackling shop theft, street crime and anti-social behaviour head on. It’s about cutting crime, but just as importantly, making sure people feel safe.”

Enforcement has included Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), Community Protection Warnings (CPWs), Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) and Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs). In Pontefract, the council secured a two-year CBO against a man responsible for persistent offending, banning him from the town centre during the day and prohibiting alcohol-related behaviour in public.

Police are actively enforcing such orders. In July, two Castleford offenders were arrested and remanded for breaching their CBOs. More than 30 individuals in Wakefield city centre are currently subject to similar restrictions.

Councillor Daniel Wilton, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
“We’re determined to make sure everyone feels welcome, safe and supported. Tackling anti-social behaviour is vital to keeping our towns and city centre vibrant places to live, work and visit.”

CCTV is also proving crucial. Between July and August, surveillance contributed to 155 arrests, covering offences from assault to drug dealing. In one case, footage helped identify suspects in a violent Pontefract assault which left a victim unconscious with life-threatening injuries.

Community engagement is another focus, with Police Cadets distributing hundreds of leaflets to raise awareness of PSPOs and encourage reporting. The Wakefield City Neighbourhood Policing Team has also launched new Police and Retailers Together (PART) meetings, mirroring community forums but aimed at city centre businesses.

With strong police presence, targeted enforcement, and closer links with the community, the partnership says it is committed to long-term solutions against persistent offenders and anti-social behaviour.

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