Sussex Police, in collaboration with local partners, is actively addressing the surge in anti-social behavior and crime in Barnham, enhancing community safety. Over the past three months, from October 2023 to January 2024, there have been 52 incidents of anti-social behavior reported in Barnham and Eastergate, highlighting the community’s concerns.
Violent crime also remains a focus, with 15 incidents reported, including five cases of assault without injury. Notably, shoplifting emerges as the predominant issue, with 64 reported incidents, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
To combat these challenges, Sussex Police is intensifying its efforts in Barnham and nearby villages, ensuring heightened visibility and engagement. A pivotal multi-agency meeting at Barnham Village Hall, featuring representatives from Sussex Police, Arun District Council, BTP, and local businesses like Co-op and Tesco, laid the groundwork for a strategic response to these issues.
Highlighting the proactive approach, a recent burglary at the Co-Op in Barnham led to a swift identification of the suspect following a media appeal, demonstrating the effectiveness of community-police collaboration.
The engagement with the youth is particularly noteworthy, with several being interviewed under caution for linked anti-social behavior and shoplifting incidents. Legal actions have been taken against individuals, including a 14-year-old from Yapton, charged with multiple shoplifting incidents and assault, showcasing the commitment to accountability and community safety.
Additionally, the deployment of rail enforcement officers at Barnham train station underscores the comprehensive approach to crime prevention and safety enhancement in the area.
Detective Sergeant Lou Baileff said: “I really encourage anyone to report anti-social behaviour and any criminal activity.
“We need to know what is happening, where and when. We need to tackle this head on and will have the resources to do so.
“Our teams will be targeting resources to the areas which are affected, and the community can really help us by reporting crime.”
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “Anti-social behaviour affects our quality of life and can be the gateway to neighbourhoods feeling unsafe. Whilst it is disappointing to see this volume of anti-social behaviour, I’m pleased that the public are reporting and the police are responding effectively.
“I was also concerned to hear about the high volume of shoplifting occurring locally. Our Safer Sussex Business partnership recently discussed some of the joint measures that retailers and police are taking to identify and target shoplifters. Business crime matters, especially shoplifting and it is never a victimless crime. I will continue to work with the Chief Constable and our dedicated business crime unit to ensure we are protecting businesses and their staff from any violence or aggression they may face from criminals. I look forward to hearing positive outcomes from the continued work within Barnham over the coming months.”
If you have any information or would like to report a crime, contact police online or call 101 quoting Operation Precinct.
Always dial 999 in an emergency.
