Police could ban trouble-makers from town areas

Operation Gallant has been launched in Newtown and neighbouring communities by Dyfed Powys Police as part of a campaign to stop trouble and to ensure festive partygoers enjoy their time out.

The police said they would be increasing high visibility patrols on key nights, targeting hot spots such as takeaways, carrying out licence checks and working closely with pub and club door staff by identifying potential trouble-makers.

Police officers can also use a newly introduced power to direct people out of an area for up to 24 hours. 

It means police and community support officers can ban someone from a specific area for 24 hours.

This could be used where trouble has sparked off or where trouble makers need to be moved on for a certain period of time to ensure the safety of others. Section 35 was introduced into legislation earlier this year. 

PC Sarah Ross said: “Through Operation Gallant police will be working hard to keep our nightlife areas safe. However I urge anyone heading out for their Christmas party to take responsibility for their own actions and be prepared.

"It could make your night out one to remember for all the right reasons rather than a nightmare you’d rather forget.”

As well as this action, police are reminding party-goers of their own responsibility to keep themselves and their friends safe on a night out.

Advice on how to party safely has been issued as part of the Dyfed Powys Police Christmas crime prevention campaign Operation Safe and Nice to All (SANTA).

Included in the Partying safety package are reminders to party-goers to enjoy themselves safely and also to warn of the consequences of committing offences on a night out. There is advice on personal safety, responsible drinking, sexual assault and alcohol-fuelled violence.

Superintendent Chris Curtis, Head of Neighbourhood Development at Dyfed Powys Police, said: “Think about planning your evening in advance: Pre-book a reputable taxi; fully charge your mobile phone; make sure you have enough cash to get home; stay with your friends; don’t drink too much and never leave your drink unattended.”

 Operation Gallant top tips for a safe night out this Christmas: 

• Plan your journey home - book a taxi in advance or have a lift arranged.
•  Remember if you are too drunk a taxi driver could refuse to take you as a passenger Dress weather-appropriately - wear a coat and take an umbrella if it is raining Never walk bear foot – you risk injuring your feet.
•  Carry flats in your handbag for when high heels become too uncomfortable
•  Pace yourself - drink water between alcoholic drinks and don’t drink in rounds
•  Be prepared – make sure your mobile phone is fully charged and you have spare cash to pay for your transport home 
• Look after your friends – make sure you all stay together and arrange somewhere to meet if you do lose each other.
• If you do decide to go somewhere else, then make sure you tell someone.
• If a friend needs to go home early because they are too drunk, make sure you escort them to their taxi or lift.
• Walk away from aggression / violence –don’t risk injury or arrest
• Drink spiking – Never leave your drink unattended. If you believe your drink has been spiked contact the police immediately on 999
•  Drink driving - the advice from police is simple - don’t drink and drive.
• Remember: you could still be over the limit the morning after a night out.
• No means no – If there is no consent to sex, or the person is too drunk to consent, it is rape.