Avoid Trouble Plea Following Disorder Incidents In Craven Arms

A police officer has warned that anyone involved in any future disorder in Craven Arms is likely to face prosecution.

Sergeant Mike Dulson issued the warning following the successful prosecution of several local people involved in serious public order incidents earlier this year.

Several small groups of people were involved and a series of disorder incidents in the town resulted in individuals being assaulted and property being damaged.

Sergeant Dulson said: "This behaviour has caused real problems within the local community. There is no excuse for it and local residents should not have to tolerate it.

"The problems have been caused by a small minority of people, usually the same group of individuals, repeatedly involved."

He said the police had carried out various investigations resulting in several offenders being charged and put before the courts.

"I'd like to thank members of the local community who have come forward to assist the police and also to reassure the people of Craven Arms that the police will continue to press for the prosecution of troublemakers.

"I would urge those who have previously been involved in causing trouble to think twice before causing any further problems. My advice is steer clear of confrontation and keep out of trouble. It's just not worth it both on a personal level and because of the upset it causes to the town."

Earlier this month, an 18-year-old man was convicted by Telford magistrates on two public order offences and also two charges of possessing an offensive weapon. He was given a 12-month community order, including supervision, ordered to do 40 hours unpaid work and placed under a 12-month restraining order not to enter Craven Arms.

In a separate court case, another young man admitted a public order offence and was fined £175.

Sergeant Dulson added: "Craven Arms has suffered enough senseless acts of disorder. Hopefully, these will be reduced or cease altogether, but if there are repeat offences I am sure the community will work with the police to bring those responsible to book."