Folkestone Man Busted in Anti-Social Crackdown
Folkestone cops have charged a man amid a blitz on anti-social behaviour (ASB) plaguing Middelburg Square. The move follows a surge in complaints from locals fed up with loitering and nuisance acts in the heart of town.
Patrols Snare Curtis Tipton in ASB Sting
On Monday, February 19, 2024, neighbourhood officers spotted a suspicious crew during routine patrols in Middelburg Square — a known hot spot for ASB. One man, Curtis Tipton, 53, no fixed address, was hauled in and slapped with charges including theft, obstructing a police officer, and blocking a search. He’s now behind bars ahead of a Folkestone Magistrates’ Court hearing on February 27.
Community Safety Partnership Steps Up
Folkestone’s Community Safety Partnership (CSP), teaming up Kent Police and Folkestone & Hythe District Council, is cracking down hard on ASB. Their focus? Cleaning up the notorious underpass in Middelburg Square, notorious for drug misuse and grime. The CSP has pumped funding from the Safer Streets Project into local volunteer group Folkestone Town Sprucer to clear debris and boost safety.
Big Bucks to Cut Crime & Boost Safety
The Safer Streets 5 fund — backed by the Kent Police & Crime Commissioner — is pouring cash into Folkestone & Hythe to fight crime, ASB, and violence against women and girls. Plans include revamping the town’s CCTV network, launching youth outreach to combat ASB, training public space workers, and cracking down on graffiti and litter.
“We’re fully committed to tackling community concerns,” said Detective Inspector James Wyles of Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit. “This partnership and the Safer Streets Project give us hope for real improvements in reducing crime and ASB.”
Residents urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to help keep Folkestone safe and sound.
