A dedicated operation to crack down on organised crime and anti-social behaviour has today been launched in Walsall, thanks to the Police and Crime Commissioner and West Midlands Police.
Operation Prosper, which has been funded by £25,000 from the PCC, will see the establishment of a new targeted enforcement team to crack down on youth violence, organised crime and increase confidence in policing in the town.
It will be made up of one sergeant and five officers and will be focused on cracking down on crime by arresting known offenders, disrupting organised criminal gangs and those intent on inflicting fear and misery to the people who live, work and commute through Walsall town centre.
The specialised team will utilise all available powers to create safer spaces and restore community confidence.
The operation will concentrate on reducing organised criminal activity in known hotspot locations within the St Matthew’s ward in Walsall, aiming to significantly improve community safety and public trust in the police.
This focused approach will help increase the capacity to report crime and disorder, enabling further problem-solving and a sustained reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour.
West Midlands Police will continue to work collaboratively with partner agencies, employing a comprehensive ‘pursue, prevent, protect’ strategy. This will involve the use of general enforcement powers related to anti-social behaviour, including civil injunctions, criminal behaviour orders, dispersal powers (s.34, s.60), and community protection notices.
Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, who has part-funded Op Prosper, said: “The launch of Operation Prosper is a clear message to criminals that their actions will not be tolerated in Walsall. By working in partnership with West Midlands Police, I am committed to preventing and tackling crime, promoting community safety and keeping the people, families, businesses and local community safe and secure.
“This targeted approach will not only address immediate concerns, but will also contribute to long-term solutions that build a stronger, more resilient community.
“Rebuilding community policing remains at the very top of my agenda. We need accessible, reassuring and visible policing out on the streets. We are determined to make Walsall a safer place for everyone.”
Partner agencies across the town centre are currently also working together around Walsall town centre and have created a multi-agency taskforce to drive improvements so that people find using Walsall town centre a safer and happier experience. This boosts confidence in the town and helps the local economy too.
Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby, who heads up policing operations across the borough of Walsall, said: “Operation Prosper represents a robust and proactive approach to tackling the issues that matter most to the people of Walsall.
“We are committed to using every resource at our disposal to disrupt criminal activity and create a safer environment for our community. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to listening to local concerns and taking decisive action to address them.
“We will be relentless in our pursuit of those who cause harm and disorder, and we will work tirelessly to restore confidence in our town centre.”
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