Exploring the challenges faced by police in maintaining safety during busy nights
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Police patrols in Elgin: Addressing anti-social behavior and community safety
On a chilly Friday night during the Easter school holidays, police officers in Elgin gear up for their evening shift, ready to tackle potential disturbances in the town. With approximately ten officers on duty, they are well-prepared, having reviewed intelligence reports that highlight the likely hotspots for trouble.
The Press and Journal was granted the opportunity to accompany these officers on their patrol, gaining insight into their efforts to combat anti-social behavior.
The dynamics of a Friday night patrol
As the clock strikes 6 PM, the police team disperses into pairs, with most officers patrolling on foot while a couple remain mobile in a van.
Constables Adam Meldrum and Gill Watt, both with four years of experience, lead the way. Surprisingly, they reveal that Friday nights are not necessarily the busiest periods for them. Instead, a significant portion of their time is dedicated to locating so-called “missing” children. However, these children are often not truly missing; they have simply chosen to spend the night with friends, prompting concern from parents or guardians.
Understanding the community’s youth
During the patrol, the officers encounter a young girl outside a local store, who is known to frequently be reported missing. Constable Watt engages her in conversation, aiming to understand her plans for the night. “We’re just trying to get ahead of it now,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of knowing the whereabouts of these youths to prevent unnecessary resource allocation for searches later. The officers have developed a rapport with many of the local youths, which helps in managing their safety and reducing the strain on police resources.
Elgin’s police are acutely aware of the areas prone to anti-social behavior, particularly the bus station, which has seen a troubling rise in incidents. Reports indicate that calls to this location tripled in recent years, culminating in a tragic incident involving a bus driver. Despite recent improvements, the bus station remains a focal point for police attention. Constable Chris Mackinnon highlights ongoing issues, including disruptive behavior from youths, which necessitates close monitoring and collaboration with CCTV teams to ensure safety.
Proactive measures and community engagement
In addition to monitoring known trouble spots, officers also proactively visit locations where reports of youth gatherings have surfaced. For instance, earlier in the day, Constables Meldrum and Watt checked the Biblical Gardens after receiving complaints about vandalism. Their approach is not solely reactive; they aim to engage with the community and deter potential issues before they escalate. This strategy is evident in their visits to local supermarkets, where they review CCTV footage to identify troublemakers and reassure staff of their presence.
The rising issue of illegal e-bike usage
Another growing concern for Elgin’s police is the illegal use of e-bikes in public spaces. This trend is not unique to Elgin, as many communities across the UK face similar challenges. Officers are vigilant in monitoring parks and residential areas for these vehicles, which pose safety risks and can cause damage to public property. Constable Meldrum notes the complexity of addressing this issue, as e-bike users often disperse before officers can respond to reports. Nonetheless, the police are committed to enforcing regulations and ensuring community safety.
