Community officers are asking parish officials for their help to identify hotspots.
‘We know that graffiti can have a negative impact on the appearance of our neighbourhoods and on the sense of pride people feel in their local area,’ said PC Alex Moore in letters to parishes.
‘By working together, we have an excellent opportunity to better understand the issue, identify patterns and trends, support preventative measures, and where appropriate, identify those responsible for criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.’
Police have approached the Vale parish first before working south, and have given it a week to come up with a list of sites containing identifiable graffiti tags, symbols, nicknames, or distinctive wording.
If any tools are found they should be left in situ and reported to police as potential evidence.
Scenes of crime officers will look to conduct forensic inquiries, including taking swabs and fingerprints where they can. Information gathered will be recorded in a central intelligence database.
The police have committed to stay in contact with the parishes and provide updates on progress and any action taken.
‘While enforcement and investigation form an important part of this initiative, our aim is also to better understand the factors contributing to graffiti and anti-social behaviour within our communities,’ said PC Moore.
‘By working together and sharing information, we can take positive steps towards reducing anti-social behaviour, preventing further damage, supporting those who may be vulnerable, and improving the environment for residents and visitors.’
Police have also committed to carrying out more foot patrols, community walkabouts and other engagement activities across the parishes.
In the past week officers have also been carrying out proactive drug warrant searches, targeting suspected drug dealers. Some arrests have been made.
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