E-scooters and e-bikes.

Issued 03 February 2026

We have seen a reduction in the number of e‑scooters being used in the High Street, which is positive. We will continue to take action and seize e‑scooters when they are used illegally or in places where they are not allowed.

Working in partnership with Ashford Borough Council, we have updated the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). This means that riding e‑scooters and certain types of e‑bikes is not allowed in designated areas.

Our teams are also speaking with local businesses that use e‑bikes as part of their work. We provide advice on how to use these bikes safely and within the law. In addition, officers are talking to young people about the risks and possible consequences of using e‑scooters and e‑bikes illegally.

Further days of action are planned to continue tackling these issues.

Actioned 24 March 2026

Theft - shoplifting.

Issued 03 February 2026

We are working closely with local shops through the Shop Safe scheme. This partnership helps reduce shoplifting and other crime affecting businesses and allows quick and decisive action to be taken against offenders.

We hold monthly meetings with shop owners and staff. These meetings give businesses the chance to discuss repeat shoplifters, share what is working well, look at crime trends, and lawfully share information to help prevent shoplifting. This partnership is working well and is making a real difference. As a result of this work, shoplifting in the Victoria ward has reduced by more than 50% over the past three months.

We encourage any local shop or business to speak to their local beat officer if they would like to join the Shop Safe scheme.

Actioned 24 March 2026

Antisocial behaviour (ASB) - general.

Issued 03 February 2026

We have issued several Community Protection Warnings to young people linked to anti‑social behaviour. This includes the unsafe use of catapults in the High Street and abusive behaviour towards shop and business staff.

We have also put two Acceptable Behaviour Agreements in place for two other young males who were behaving inappropriately and causing problems for local residents. An Acceptable Behaviour Agreement sets clear rules and expectations and helps the police work with the young person and their family to prevent further issues.

We are working closely with shops and venues that are often affected by antisocial behaviour involving groups of young people. Officers meet with these businesses each month to look at ways to reduce problems, design out antisocial behaviour, and focus on the individuals responsible.

The young people involved, and their families, now have clear rules they must follow. Kent Police carry out regular checks and continue to work with families to help prevent further problems.

We have also issued a Community Protection Warning to an adult male linked to substance misuse who was behaving abusively towards other residents. Although he initially tried to avoid taking responsibility for his actions, officers carried out enquiries, located him in Folkestone, and issued the warning. The Community Protection Warning includes positive conditions to help stop further offending and encourage engagement with substance misuse support and other professional services.

Actioned 24 March 2026