The number of anti-social behaviour reports in Suffolk has dropped by nearly a third.

Figures presented to Suffolk’s Police and Crime Panel showed there were 9,591 incidents reported to Suffolk police in the 12 months to the end of June, compared to the 14,140 average of the three years prior.

Anti-social behaviour (ASB) where the victim was a person had dropped by more than 45%, environmental ASB such as graffiti was down by 41% and nuisance ASB was down nearly 26%.

Commander Superintendent for the Southern Area Kerry Cutler said: “By listening to residents’ concerns and putting officers into targeted areas we have been able to prevent ASB, target those causing the ASB and ensure they are held accountable.

“We have engaged with communities to identify areas that we are not already aware of and have also been working with our partners, including schools, to positively divert and protect those involved in ASB to prevent more serious offending.”

Among some of the measures employed by officers as part of the Operation Parkland drive was patrolling hotspot areas, plain-clothed patrols, ‘street meets’ in problem areas and visits into schools by a dedicated PCSO or youth gangs prevention team.

A force spokesman added: “Whilst reported anti-social behaviour continues to fall across the county, dealing with ASB and those persons causing ASB still remains a priority for our Safer Neighbourhood Teams.

“ASB can have a significant impact on communities and, for those living in areas where it is causing issues, it is distressing and affects quality of life.

“We know there is always more to do, so we are not resting on our laurels, but we have made positive strides thanks to all the collective hard work and ownership to address the issues by residents, families, community groups, charities and councillors.

“If anyone has been the victim of ASB, we would encourage you to report this to us so it helps us to gain a full understanding of what is happening in your area and we can take appropriate action.”

Between July and September, police reported 13 arrests, four closure notices on properties, 34 stop searches, 12 community protection notice warnings, issued five community resolutions and made seven referrals for the youth offending team.