As the summer holiday season draws crowds to Sussex town centres, a major police crackdown is underway to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and shoplifting under the national Safer Streets Summer initiative.
Backed by the Home Office, the campaign runs through to the end of September and sees Sussex Police working closely with local councils, businesses and community partners to increase visibility and reduce harm. Residents and visitors can expect a stronger police presence in areas identified as crime hotspots, with more patrols and quicker responses.
The campaign builds on the success of Sussex’s hotspot policing strategy, fully rolled out last year after a successful pilot. In just three months from April to June, more than 6,800 hours of additional patrols were delivered across key areas. These efforts led to 12,885 public interactions and 75 arrests, ranging from drug offences to theft and weapon possession.
Chief Superintendent Katy Woolford said the focus is on prevention as much as enforcement: “As we see the annual seasonal increases in criminality, we are concentrating resources over the summer to reduce harm in Sussex. Officers will be out in force, talking with members of the public and ensuring a safe environment for all.”
In Brighton, a dedicated hotspot team made 29 arrests in just 30 days, primarily related to drug supply. Officers also seized three knives and an offensive weapon from the streets. Meanwhile in Hastings, officers arrested and remanded a woman linked to 19 thefts, and a man for three burglaries. Businesses have praised the targeted response, with Marks and Spencer in Hastings highlighting how regular patrols help deter shoplifting and reassure staff and customers.
Crawley has also seen increased engagement. Over just three days, police visited 21 retail premises, including those inside and around County Mall, addressing both theft and disorder concerns. Officers also engaged with local licensed venues, ensuring they remain safe and secure during busy summer evenings.
The Safer Streets Summer approach isn’t only reactive — it also aims to steer people, especially youth, away from offending. Throughout the season, diversionary activities and engagement events will be held in town centres across the county to promote safety and provide alternative opportunities.
Katy Bourne, Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner, welcomed the results so far: “My office secured £1.4 million last year from the Home Office to boost policing in areas most affected by crime. I’m pleased to see the positive outcomes. This initiative proves that proactive and targeted policing, combined with community involvement, leads to safer streets.”
Enforcement is further strengthened through measures like Public Space Protection Orders that help tackle street drinking and begging while also ensuring vulnerable individuals are supported.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting crimes and anti-social behaviour. This helps police build a clearer picture of where and when to deploy resources most effectively.
With a mix of firm enforcement, community collaboration and outreach, Sussex Police say they are committed to ensuring local town centres remain welcoming, safe spaces throughout the busy summer months — and beyond.
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