Police crackdown after spate of vandalism and anti-social behaviour at Bishopbriggs

Councillor Gary Pews (Lib Dem, Bishopbriggs North and Campsie) asked police to take action after a spate of recent incidents which included:

An attempt to break into the now disused Crosshill House; damage to the playpark at Cloan Crescent and a number of food bins being overturned; wheelie bins set alight; graffiti sprayed on fences, bridges and road signs, elderly residents being intimidated by large groups of youngsters and two attempts to start fires at the woods at Low Moss.

After being alerted to the incidents and witnessing some himself, Councillor Pews said he raised the matter with the local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Lorna Gibson, and extra patrols were put on in the town over the weekend.

Councillor Pews said: “I do understand the problems young people have faced in recent months with lockdown, school closures and all its consequences on their lives.

“But this sort of behaviour is simply unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“I am glad that Chief Inspector Gibson shares that view and I very much appreciate the action she is taking to address the issue.

“Indeed, I saw some of the extra officers patrolling on bicycles at the weekend, and their visibility is very reassuring for residents.

“I am told that officers dispersed a number of groups of youths and discovered that most of them were from outwith the Bishopbriggs area, which is a little concerning.

“The message must go out that they won’t be allowed to wreak havoc in Bishopbriggs. I hope the police will continue to be proactive in tackling this problem”.

Chief Inspector Gibson said: “I am very much aware of the detrimental impact that anti-social behaviour can have on communities and am committed to tackling the issue within East Dunbartonshire.

“Unfortunately, during lock-down Police have been dealing with a general increase in anti-social behaviour.

“To address this, plans have been put in place to increase the police presence in the Bishopbriggs area.

“Engaging in anti-social behaviour and being involved in criminality will not be tolerated and anyone engaging in such behaviour should expect to be dealt with robustly.

“I would encourage parents to check that you know where your children are, who they are with and what they are doing when they are out.”