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Police step up patrols after reports of fireworks being let off on York streets

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Police will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the Chapelfields area of York in response to fireworks being let off on the streets.

The patrols over the coming days aim to ensure everyone can enjoy the Bonfire Night period safely.

Officers from the York west neighbourhood policing team are being deployed on proactive patrols in the area over the weekend, and parents are being urged to ensure their children behave responsibly.

Several residents have reported groups of young people congregating in the area and using fireworks over the last few days.

Anti-social behaviour

Inspector Andy Godfrey said York is a very safe city, and most “residents enjoy the Bonfire Night period in the right spirit”. But he addede

However, some people can put themselves and others at risk by misusing fireworks and behaving anti-socially. In particular, we have received a number of reports of incidents on the Chapelfields estate in recent days.

Responding to those concerns, there will be a high-visibility presence in the Chapelfields area, and we will take robust action against anyone causing disruption.

A dispersal order is in place, giving officers the power to direct people to leave the area if they are likely to be involved in anti-social behaviour.

He urged parents to speak to their children, “so that they understand how their actions could cause alarm or distress to others, and lead to a fine, a criminal record or even an arrest”.

If you witness a crime or anti-social behaviour, call police on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

It is an offence to throw fireworks in the street or any public place, and for anyone under the age of 18 to possess an adult firework. It is also an offence to supply any firework to a person under the age of 16.