HALLOWEEN WEEKEND PATROLS ACROSS SOUTH DERBYSHIRE

HALLOWEEN WEEKEND PATROLS ACROSS SOUTH DERBYSHIRE

Officers have been conducting high-visibility Halloween patrols across villages in South Derbyshire this weekend, supporting the many children-friendly autumnal events taking place.
 

Thankfully, most young people and residents embraced the Halloween spirit responsibly, enjoying community events, donning fancy dress and celebrating with friends and family.

It was fantastic to see so many children having fun, safely and creating positive memories.
 

Unfortunately, there were a few hiccups, involving some pumpkin-infused antisocial behaviour.

At the Highfields Estate, near Findern, officers were made aware of a group of teenagers who elected to ride e-scooters dangerously at speed on pavements, while very young children were navigating their way from house-to-house.
 

Nearby, in rural Findern, teenagers were seen approaching residents’ properties whilst wearing balaclavas, face coverings, and dark clothing. Police approached the youths who stated that they had decided to “dress-up as robbers” for the evening. With little thought for vulnerable residents who could be alarmed by this behaviour, the teenagers were dealt with and sent on their way.

Disappointingly, some older male teenagers, almost adult in age, appeared to use the occasion as an excuse to engage in further antisocial behaviour.
 

In Willington, on Twyford Road, police received a report of a group of youths hurling pumpkins at passing vehicles.

And elsewhere, in South Derbyshire, residents say they observed youths emptying sweet and gift displays into black bags; setting off fireworks irresponsibly; and kicking pumpkins around in local streets.
 

Please remember that Halloween is a time for fun and enjoyment for young children and their families, not an opportunity for behaviour that causes alarm, distress and frustration within our communities.

Police will be patrolling the north of South Derbyshire on late shifts tonight, making it clear that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.