Sussex Police have stepped up patrols in Rye and Rye Harbour following reports of anti-social behaviour. A number of incidents are being dealt with by the police including thefts, graffiti, damage to property, drug use and harassment affecting both local people and businesses.
Sergeant Jon Thwaites, from the Rother Neighbourhood Policing Team, told Rye News:
“Tackling anti-social behaviour is a key focus for Sussex Police and we are dedicated to minimising it all year round. Rye has seen a recent spike in reports of incidents such as groups of young people harassing members of public and businesses, damage and drug use in public toilets, and issues in and around the train station. We continue to work in partnership with local businesses, the council, and the British Transport Police to identify those involved, prevent re-offending, and provide diversion activities.”
Rye Rugby Club was targeted on Saturday, January 27 when a parked car was damaged and a wallet stolen between 1pm and 3pm – the crime reference is 709 28/01/24. The same day there was damage to a house on Ferry Road in Rye at 3:20pm when witnesses saw youths putting things through an open window which was then broken (ref 1407 27/01).
Graffiti in and around the toilets on Station Approach in Rye occurred between Sunday and Monday January 28 and 29. (ref 0070 31/01). The men’s toilets are currently closed for repairs. The harassment and intimidating behaviour and harassment took place in a number of different locations around town including Rope Walk, Market Road and again near the station. Shop workers, residents and tourists were among those left visibly upset.
Residents and businesses have also shared their worries with local councillors. Cllr Simon McGurk, one of Rye’s representatives on Rother District Council, says he has raised their concerns with Sussex Police and says he’s pleased with their response. “They’ve been proactive and upped their visibility around town. That’s good, but that isn’t to say there isn’t more to do for the police and other agencies, including the district council. We all need to work together to combine resources and plan a collective response.”
Sergeant Thwaites is urging anyone who has been affected, or seen any anti-social behaviour (ASB) to get in touch. “The public are our eyes and ears, and these reports help us to build a map of local crime and deploy our resources more effectively. If you have witnessed or been a victim of ASB, please report to police online or via 101.”
Image Credits: Chris Lawson , James Stewart .