Police step up retail park patrols after arrests

Visitors to a Wolverhampton retail park have been warned there will be an increased number of police patrols due to a spate of teenage anti-social behaviour.

It comes after groups of youngsters were causing issues for visitors and businesses at Bentley Bridge Retail and Leisure Park, in the Wednesfield area of the city, earlier this week, West Midlands Police said.

Two people were arrested, one in connection with drug offences, and a teenage boy on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) has been put in place for the area around the retail park, which prevents groups of more than three from gathering without a valid reason.

Face coverings were also not allowed, police said, and anyone who did not leave the area when asked to by officers could be arrested.

The force has warned police will be in the area to crack down on further instances of anti-social behaviour into the weekend.

Insp Steve Edwards said: "This type of behaviour, which directly impacts residents and businesses, is completely unacceptable.

"Anyone who comes here to commit crime or cause anti-social behaviour and disorder will be arrested and prosecuted."

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