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Evening teen curfew kicks in
12:11pm Thursday 29th April 2004
NEW powers to tackle loutish behaviour from youths congregating on Southgate Green were used for the first time by police officers at the weekend.
Residents have complained of an increase in vandalism, graffiti, underage drinking and drug use among groups of young people who gather on the Green.
The pilot project, which began on Friday and runs until August 28, gives police new powers to move young troublemakers on or accompany them to their homes.
On Friday night, a gang of youths on the Green were spoken to by officers, and warned of the new powers. Later, they were spotted in the area again, and one 15-year-old boy was taken to his home in Palmers Green by police.
On Saturday night, a gang of youths gathered at the bus shelter next to The Green were moved on by officers. Two girls, both under 16, were taken home to their parents by police.
A police spokeswoman said: "Everyone we have spoken to is pleased and supportive of police action and sees this as a success. Both sets of parents were also very supportive."
Anyone under 16, found in the area without an adult between 9pm and 6am, will be escorted home by police. If they fail to comply, they could face a six-month prison sentence or a £5,000 fine.
Denise Ghandi, chairwoman of the Southgate Green Association, said: "It has had a positive impact, but it has only been going for a few days. It is something we will be discussing at our annual meeting in two weeks time and canvassing a view from the community."
MP for Enfield Southgate, Stephen Twigg, said the Government's determination to take on anti-social behaviour would improve life for people in Southgate.
He said: "The residents of the Southgate Green area have been plagued by these troublemakers for months now. There has been smashed shop windows and extensive graffiti.
"The Anti Social Behaviour Act was devised to address these sorts of situations and its powers will help the police officers to protect the local community."
If the scheme is successful, it could be introduced to other parts of the borough.
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