COPS have been handed new powers to target yobs after trouble on the streets of Kates Hill.
A dispersal order has come into force which gives officers the power to move groups of two or more people from the area if they are suspected of causing anti-social behaviour, and the power to return under 16s to their home between 9pm and 6am.
The order will be in force until March 2015 and covers roads bordered by Owen Street, East Street, Cromwell Street and St John’s Road.
Sergeant Warren Lambeth, from Dudley police station, said: "Residents in this area have suffered anti-social behaviour caused by a small handful of people intent on trying to intimidate and upset others.
"Sadly these actions can have a negative effect on the whole community and we hope that this order will enable us to make a real difference to those who are suffering.”
Anyone found repeatedly breaking the order will face further police action and police have pledged to step up patrols in the area in response to complaints from residents and business owners.
To report anti-social behaviour contact Dudley council on 0300 555 2345 or call police on 101.
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