LOCAL police have offered reassurance that reducing anti-social behaviour in Frome is a ‘key focus’ following rising concern amongst residents that incidents in the town are on the up.
Following an assault on two boys in Frome on Monday 9th May, locals shared their concerns online, claiming that they feel ‘unsafe’ with what they believe to be a rise in violent crime in the town.
Some locals explained that they felt the town was ‘getting worse’; while others said that it only ‘looks worse’ because social media allows news to be shared more easily.
However, the majority of residents called for more to be done in the town to combat crime.
In response to the concerns, sergeant Dan Jeffries from the Frome Neighbourhood Police Team told Frome Times, “Reducing anti-social behaviour (ASB) is a key focus for Frome Neighbourhood Police Team. The team investigates reports of ASB and will consider a range of interventions when dealing with offenders. This includes working closely with our ASB Team, as well as our key partners at the town and district council and multiple support agencies.
“The team has completed extensive investigations into reports of youth crime and anti-social behaviour and it continues to be a priority for us and to reassure the local community that action is being taken. We actively seek to engage with the community to understand their concerns and hold regular engagement events, which we advertise on our social media and website.”
Police have also said that there is ‘no update’ currently available regarding the investigation into the recent assault incident.
The assault on two boys happened close to Welshmill play park on the afternoon of Monday 9th May. Video footage of the assault was shared and uploaded on social media by locals, sparking the online debate about the alleged rise in crime in Frome.
In the days after the assault, the local neighbourhood team said they were planning extra high-visibility patrol in the area.
Anyone who witnessed the assault and has not yet spoken to police, can call 101 and give reference number 5222109515.
