A new team of special constables has been helping with efforts to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in parts of Tonbridge. 

The Specials Tasking Unit was created to assist regular police officers in dealing with issues such as nuisance bikers, drugs and alcohol misuse.

The unit operates from a Kent Police base in Coldharbour, Aylesford and across Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 September 2021 provided support in areas of Tonbridge including Longmead, Baltic Road and the Trench ward.

The Specials called in Photo: Kent Police

Arrest and vehicle seizures

They worked alongside officers from the Tonbridge Community Policing Team, who on the Sunday stopped a car in Hadlow, which was linked to a series of thefts from vans in Suffolk.

A 34-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of theft offences and his car seized. 

A separate vehicle was also stopped in the Hadlow area and seized for having no insurance, whilst the volunteer officers provided further assistance in responding to a number of emergency calls.

These included helping with enquiries around a high-risk missing person and carrying out searches on suspects, including under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Sergeant Ash Boxall said: ‘The Specials Tasking Unit will help our officers in striking a balance between allowing people to enjoy themselves, and intervening when their actions may make an area frightening or unpleasant to be in.‘We never underestimate the impact anti-social behaviour can have on people’s lives and take all reports seriously as persistent issues can cause real upset and distress to residents, particularly parents with young children and older people.’

Join the Special Constabulary

Sgt Boxall added: ‘Special constables are unpaid volunteers who give up at least 16 hours of their own time every month supporting our regular police officers. We are always keen to hear from people of all different ages and backgrounds who may want to become a volunteer.‘They are highly respected by their regular colleagues and play an invaluable role in disrupting issues such as anti-social behaviour, as well as deterring and tackling criminals. The role is rewarding and challenging, but also fulfilling and it can often fit in neatly among other full-time jobs.’

Special constables have full police powers, wear a uniform and carry standard-issue police equipment. For more information on joining the Special Constabulary click here.

By Ed

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