Joint Enforcement Team Tackling ASB

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Having been in operation for a little over nine months, the Joint Enforcement Team has quickly established itself as an invaluable resource in Mole Valley District Council’s efforts to address anti-social behaviour and low-level crime quickly and effectively.   

The Joint Enforcement Team (JET), working in partnership with the Police, has investigated close to 750 reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) since April 2019. The level of awareness about how and where to report anti-social behaviour to Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) has increased since the team’s introduction, leading to responding to more reports than ever before.

The JET’s three enforcement officers have responded to a wide range of ASB cases since April, of which 93%* have been relating to instances of abandoned vehicles, fly-tips and community ASB. The nature of the JET’s role often means having to travel to locations across the district. Reflecting MVDC’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the team have been using two new 100% electric vehicles to conduct patrols and attend sites where ASB has been reported.  

In an effort to further address and put measures in place to prevent ASB, MVDC will soon be introducing 15 cameras at identified fly-tip hotspots to deter individuals from illegally dumping waste and potentially capture footage of perpetrators who choose to do so regardless.

For more information and to report anti-social behaviour, visit www.molevalley.gov.uk/jet. The JET’s activities can be seen on Facebook www.facebook.com/jetmv, where reports can also be made.

Borough Commander, Inspector Karen Coyne, said: “The team have been a great support to us and have helped us to address a number of ASB problems. They have also supported us at educational engagement events to raise awareness of rural crime issues and educate around anti-social use of motorcycles.”

Councillor Hazel Watson, Cabinet Member for Community, said: “We have been receiving some very positive feedback from local communities about the way in which the JET has been in responding to and investigating reports of anti-social behaviour. It is important residents feel they can report anti-social behaviour to us, and have confidence something will be done. The JET responds to reports as quickly as they can, so please continue to make us aware when something needs our attention.”    

Chairman, Westcott Village Association