'Heightened police presence and dispersal notices': Police crack down on disorder in Exmouth

Following further reports of antisocial behaviour and disorder in Exmouth last night, the local policing team have plans in place for the weekend.

Superintendent of Local Policing in Exeter, East and Mid Devon, Antony Hart said: "Over the past two days there have been a number of incidents of disorder and antisocial behaviour in the area of Exmouth sea front and Orcombe Point.

"These reports have included large groups of young people and adults fighting, a serious assault and officers being verbally abused and spat at.

"Needless to say, this is absolutely unacceptable behaviour and it will not be tolerated.

"As a result of these matters we will be putting out an increased high visibility police presence in the area over the coming days and those arriving can expect to be greeted by officers.

"Those who are involved in antisocial behaviour will be robustly dealt with, and we will seek out those who have committed offences.

"A Section 35 dispersal order has been put in place between 12pm on Friday 26 and 12pm on Sunday 28 June to cover the sea front area.

"Anyone who is formally given notice to disperse from the area must not return within the notice period and anyone who does is liable for arrest and prosecution.

"Local teams are also continuing to review available CCTV and social media footage in order to identify those responsible for causing this disruption and I'd encourage anyone who witnessed any of the incidents, has relevant mobile phone footage and information, to contact police by 101 quoting log 287 of 26 June.

"While regulations around COVID have been relaxed to an extent, the Government continues to ask all people to respect social distancing and rule around gatherings and to remember coronavirus remains a serious threat to public health.

"While we want people to be able to have a good time and enjoy themselves, drinking to excess and meeting in such large groups is putting themselves and many others at risk."