Watford town centre crime crackdown sees 16 arrested

Watford High Street and The Parade were identified as areas particularly affected  under Operation Hotspot - a scheme launched in May to tackle ASB and serious violence.

The force heralded its success as they said there has been a 15 per cent reduction in overall crime and 18 per cent less ASB across the Watford Central area since it was introduced.

Police said there has been 15 per cent less crime in Watford since Operation Hotspot was launched in May. (Image: Google Street View) In the last four months, officers have also made 16 arrests, seized two weapons and used ASB powers such as dispersal orders and community protection warnings 159 times.

Over 1,000 extra patrols have been carried out on top of normal daily duties, while a signage for a “no drinking zone” has been installed. 

Among high profile arrests was one in August outside High Street's Primark, which saw an officer draw his taser to diffuse an argument involving two men - one who was armed with a metal pole.

He did not discharge it and when other officers arrived they detained the pair. One was then arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon.

The officer detained both men on his own until more police arrived. (Image: Supplied) Neighbourhood inspector Dan Jones said: “Thanks to the additional funding made available under Operation Hotspot, we’ve been able to conduct extra, targeted patrols as part of our continuing efforts to crackdown on crime and antisocial behaviour in Watford town centre. 

“The patrols have proved a real success over the summer, reducing crime and antisocial behaviour, enabling us to make additional arrests on top of daily business and remove weapons from the street. These patrols are continuing.”

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Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards added: “Hertfordshire residents have told me they want to see visible and responsive policing, tackling antisocial behaviour and disorder in communities. That is what Operation Hotspot is delivering. 

“These high-visibility patrols are designed to deter and catch people committing offences, as well as boosting engagement with residents and businesses.”

Rickmansworth Road, between Cassiobury park and the Town Hall roundabout, was also identified in May as a crime hotspot as it apparently suffered from youth-related ASB and drug dealing.

St Albans Road. (Image: Google Street View) St Albans Road, from Station Road to Balmoral Road, will also see a greater police presence due to consistent “street-related antisocial behaviour”.