Dedicated beat patrol for main thoroughfare
Large groups have been hanging out around shops on Ballyfermot Road

Dedicated beat patrol for main thoroughfare

SERIOUS anti-social incidents on a main thoroughfare led to local gardai initiating a dedicated beat patrol each evening in Ballyfermot.

Large groups of youths hanging out near the shops on Ballyfermot Road have been a source of concern for residents, particularly for elderly shoppers and women.

Following an increase of anti-social behaviour on Ballyfermot Road at the shops, gardai established the dedicated beat patrol.

The patrol takes place each evening from 4pm to 9pm, and includes gardai on pedal bikes.

Gardai say the move was a reaction to serious incidents and a lot of shops in the area being “tormented” by gangs of youths.

Speaking at the Ballyfermot Policing Meeting this week, Inspector Paul Maycock, said it was their preference to intervene, rather than prosecute youths.

“We can’t prosecute every young person. We have been out to homes in Croftwood, Ballyfermot Road, and we ask the parents, a word to us now, might help in five years time.

“A word now without prosecuting is one of the tried and tested ways of breaking down barriers,” said Insp Maycock.

Youths who refuse to move away when told, can be issued with behaviour warnings under ASBO (anti-social behaviour order) legislation.

Ballyfermot gardai have also engaged with youth projects in the community, including ABLE and Familibase, and said they hope to get the soccer programme back up and running.

Cllr Vincent Jackson (Ind) said the patrols have led to a “huge improvement” in addressing the anti-social activity on Ballyfermot Road.

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