MORE than 40 arrests were made in Wiltshire as officers targeted shoplifting and anti-social behaviour over the festive period.

Wiltshire Police carried out a number of targeted operations, including patrols at shopping centres and crime hot spots.

The force’s Neighbourhood Harm Reduction Unit also worked in partnership with local authorities to put in place engagement stalls to encourage members of the public to report crime, discuss concerns and access crime prevention advice.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Saunders said: “As a force we continue to prioritise preventative policing and we remain committed to reducing crime within our communities.

“The focussed activity conducted over the festive period was planned and focussed against the crime trends and demands types we expect to see during the holiday season.

“We are determined to deal with such matters robustly and provide our communities with the best possible, evidence-based policing service.

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“When set against the other important duties being managed across Wiltshire during this period, including night-time economy issues and gang-related activity, our commitment to community engagement and service delivery underline our commitment to keeping our communities safe.”

Throughout December, the twin initiatives Op Dasher (Swindon) and Op Cracker (across Wiltshire), resulted in the following outcomes:
40 arrests
17 out of court disposals
5 closure orders relating to ASB and business premises.
3 community behaviour orders
2 Community Protection Notices relating to licence premises
14 Section 35 dispersals
15 stop and searches
104 intelligence submissions
7 high risk offenders arrested
10 hotel watch visits conducted
123 weeks of prison sentences handed down to four Swindon nominals
138 recorded engagements with local businesses and licensed premises