Big Drop In Torbay Town Centre Crime

A new Town Centre Policing Team which has been patrolling the streets of Torquay for the past month is having a massive impact on crime and disorder - particularly the supply and use of drugs in the area.

The team was launched in mid July and has been instrumental in the disruption of the supply of Class A drugs following a number of searches and warrants.

In total 47 people have been arrested by the team for things like theft and burglary, drug offences, criminal damage, assault and for breaches of ASBO's.

Officers have been carrying out targeted patrols in the town following a number of thefts from elderly and vulnerable people.

One suspect was arrested and released on police bail as enquiries continue.

During a number of stop searches and warrants police recovered crack, heroin, amphetamine and cannabis from both users and suppliers plus a large amount of money and professional cannabis grows.

The Town Centre Team has also been cracking down on begging and street drinking - particularly in Torquay's designated no drinking area's.

LISTEN HERE: Town centre co-ordinator Rachael Weaver

It's also important for the town to be tough on crime after winning purple flag status, its one of the biggest criteria in awarding the flags, the town centre team will be reapplying later this year.