COMMUNITY safety warden Pete Antoney has won an award for his part in disbanding a 40-strong gang of youths in Cuddington.
Pete received a commendation for his part in the operation from Chief Superintendent Tim Jackson.
He explained: “Pete, together with police officers, conducted months of observation. They showed tenacity and dedication by working long hours, working rest days and establishing a trust with the public.
“The evidence formed the basis for 27 ASBO applications, all of which had to be assessed individually and evidenced by statements from reluctant witnesses and from officers.”
He added: “It was not uncommon for over 40 drunken youths to intimidate the officers and wardens, who seized alcohol and vehicles and made arrests in hostile circumstances.
“This was a testing experience for all concerned, but they demonstrated a commitment to tackling the problem head on.”
The operation and information gathering took 12-months and as a result authorities were able to focus on five ringleaders and deal with the remaining 22 suspects by means of referral and criminal prosecutions. On February 27 last year five offenders admitted their guilt at Northwich Magistrates Court and were given ASBOs for three years.
Pete says he is delighted to receive the award: “I believe it is quite rare for anyone other than a police officer to receive the Commendation so I feel very honoured.
“The incidence of anti-social behaviour has dropped by 70-80% since this intervention, and when speaking to residents they regularly say it is a much better place to live.”
Community safety warden manager Steve Newson said: “We are very pleased with the results in Cuddington. This is just one example of many operations the wardens are involved in across the borough and the success rate shows that working together with organisations like Cheshire Police and Weaver Vale Housing Trust really works.”
