Abingdon police community support officers have issued a warning following a significant gathering in Caldecott Park, where a moped was reportedly being ridden by a group of individuals. The Thames Valley Police activated a Section 59 notice under the Police Reform Act 2002, a provision used when a vehicle’s use causes alarm, distress, or annoyance to the public.
This legal action applies a twelve-month warning to both the driver and the vehicle involved. Should the disruptive behaviour continue or recur, the police have the authority to seize the vehicle in question. This incident falls within a particularly busy period for the community support officers in Abingdon.
In a separate incident, a woman was arrested for aggravated trespass in the town centre, highlighting ongoing efforts to manage public safety and order in the area. Officers have also engaged with various issues affecting the community, including drug use among youth in the woods of Marcham, which necessitated safeguarding referrals regarding underage drinking and the use of fake identification.
Moreover, a community protection warning was issued to an individual for persistently begging in the town centre. Officers responded to reports of antisocial behaviour in Bury Street and investigated a potential threat involving a "suspicious male" who was seen flying a drone in Tilsley Park.
Community engagement remains a focus for officers, as demonstrated by several meetings held with local groups, including discussions at Abingdon School, a public "Have Your Say" meeting in Radley, and a training session at Oxford Police Station aimed at addressing issues involving young people. The officers continue to address community concerns and maintain a visible presence to enhance safety in Abingdon.
Source: Noah Wire Services