Police step up patrols in Frankston CBD, but traders say more needed to tackle feral youths
Police have increased patrols around Frankston’s transit precinct, but business operators say tougher action is needed to address anti social behaviour.
South East
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Police have ramped up patrols near Frankston’s transport hub, but frustrated traders say more needs to be done as drinking, fighting and swearing in the CBD spirals out of control.
Frankston Senior Sergeant Phil Hulley said there had been an increase in uniformed and plain-clothed police in the city’s transit precinct.
While Frankston Traders’ Association president John Billing welcomed the move — after the Leader highlighted concerns about youths wreaking havoc in the CBD — he said more needed to be done.
“We want to see more police patrolling Frankston’s CBD, walking irregular routes to increase the element of surprise,” he said.
“We want everyone to feel safe and welcome when they come to Frankston and not be subjected to offensive language, intimidating or unlawful behaviour.
“There hasn’t been enough presence to deter anyone who may be engaging in unlawful or unwelcoming behaviour.”
Traders, commuters and shoppers have reported an increase in large groups of people gathering and displaying anti-social behaviour in Frankston’s transit precinct.
Business operators say frequent drinking, fighting and swearing on the streets is getting out of hand.
Frankston councillor Steve Toms, who has acted as an advocate for traders, said there had been a more visible police presence in the transit precinct.
He said greater youth engagement, using multiple agencies, was also needed to address the problem of anti social behaviour involving young people.
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Store owner Natalie Waterworth has previously said feral youths and pre-teens were a nightmare and lawless.
“They have the attitude that authorities will give them a slap on the wrist and tell them to go home,” she said.
Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour is urged to report it to police.
Sen-Sgt Hulley said patrolling police had the ability to hand out on-the-spot fines.