Kent Police Crack Down on Crime in Maidstone Town Centre
Kent Police’s Problem Solving Task Force hit the streets of Maidstone town centre on Tuesday 10 August 2021, ramping up efforts to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
Patrols Target Alcohol, Begging, and Disorder
The team, made up of police community support officers, has been engaging with residents, business owners, and visitors to understand local concerns and sniff out troublemakers.
They’re enforcing the Public Space Protection Order, which bans alcohol consumption and begging in public spots. Officers are also cracking down on those ignoring Community Protection Warnings, aiming to curb disorderly conduct before it starts.
Knife Sweeps and Anti-Social Vehicles Under Fire
In a bid to curb violent crime, the Task Force conducted knife sweeps, uncovering and confiscating a concealed blade in Brenchley Gardens.
On 20 August, officers teamed up with Kent County Council in Week Street to hand out crime prevention advice, focusing on tackling knife crime among youths.
They’re also cracking down on dangerous driving. On 15 August, a biker caught tearing down Sandling Road dangerously was slapped with a formal warning — keep this up and the bike will be seized.
Police Sergeant Pledges Continued Action and Community Support
“The team was launched in February 2021 to tackle the issues that matter most to residents, making a real difference and building stronger communities,” said Police Sergeant Phil Morley.
“We’re talking to local people to identify their biggest concerns, then working with policing teams and partner agencies to take effective action.”
“Residents have told us they feel reassured seeing police on patrol and noticed more families using the parks as a result.”
“We’ll keep up our work in Maidstone in the coming weeks. If you have concerns, speak to our patrols, report via our website, or call 101.”
