What is the power of dispersal?
New powers of dispersal introduced to bring relief to communities and deal with antisocial behaviour in particular trouble-spots. A senior police officer must consult the local authority before designating an area where antisocial behaviour is a significant, persistent and serious problem. Police have power to disperse where groups are causing alarm or distress (by presence or behaviour) in the area. It is only an offence if instructions to disperse are not followed. The powers came into force on 28 October and are backed up by statutory guidance.
