Dispersal zone introduced in Everton

A Dispersal Zone has been introduced in Everton this evening, Thursday 20 July, following a stabbing and reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.

The order began at 10pm tonight, Thursday 20 July, and runs until 10pm Saturday 22 July where it will be further reviewed.

Officers will be in the area to provide a visible presence and deal with any incidents.

The Dispersal Zone covers the areas covered: Scotland Road, Boundary Street East, Skirving Place, Great Homer Street, Anderson Street, Netherfield Road North, Conway Street, Great Homer Street on to Chapel Lane and Scotland Road.

The order comes under Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour & Policing Act 2014, which gives the police officers and police community support traffic officers powers to direct people who are engaging in antisocial behaviour or are likely to become involved in such incidents. These powers will not be used for anyone visiting the area and going about their daily business.

Under the legislation, officers have the power to seize any item, including vehicles, used in the commission of anti-social behaviour.

Should a person who has previously been directed to leave the area return, an offence would be committed, which they may ultimately be arrested for.

This order is following a reported stabbing of 16-year-old male in the forearm, stomach and back on Jennifer Avenue earlier this evening, and reports of anti-social behaviour in the area.

The boy was taken to hospital for treatment for his injury which is not believed to be life threatening.

Chief Inspector Jay Crellin said: “We have proactively put this dispersal order in place in response to the 16-year-old boy being stabbed earlier today and recent reports of anti-social behaviour and disturbances

“This dispersal order is to prevent youths gathering and causing unnecessary distress and intimidation to people who want to go about their business without fear or harm.

“We have increased patrols in the area, and this latest action of a dispersal zone is to deal with any issues and prevent offences from taking place. I would ask people to continue reporting any concerns and we will take action.

“I would urge parents and guardians to know where young people in your care are, to further assist us in dealing with those who cause trouble.”

Anyone who wishes to report anti-social or criminal behaviour can contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.