The Level 'a completely different place' as police step up patrols

Skate park users at The Level in Brighton have praised an increased police presence at the park, saying 'it's a complete different place'.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Nov 2018, 08:55 BST
Updated 12th Nov 2018, 15:31 BST
Police have been praised for an increased presence at The Level, BrightonPolice have been praised for an increased presence at The Level, Brighton
Police have been praised for an increased presence at The Level, Brighton

One of the skatepark users said: "I'm a regular at the skatepark at The Level along with lot of other BMX riders. I just wanted to take time to say how much of a difference the police presence has made to the skatepark.

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"While it did take a long time for this to happen, well done and thank you from all the normal level users. You've hit the nail right on the head."

Brighton and Hove Chief Inspector Rachel Swinney said: "It was really great to hear this praise and positive feedback from those who frequent The Level. It is an area where we continue to focus our efforts and resources to tackle criminality.

"Over the summer months there have been increased patrols from our prevention officers and PCSOs on a daily basis and this has continued. Since the mobile police unit was set up there last month, we have seen a significant fall in the number of people dealing drugs at The Level which is reflected in the number of low arrests there - just two for possession with intent to supply cannabis.

"We have been working hard with our partners in an effort to make The Level a pleasant and enjoyable environment for the community.

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"The information we receive from our local community is absolutely vital in helping us to build a picture about what is going on in that area and we want to hear from anyone if they are concerned about they see and hear. "We continue to target drug dealers who exploit our most vulnerable people. They will be arrested and dealt with robustly. I want to make it very clear to those criminals that they are not welcome in our city and we will do all we can to relentless pursue them and disrupt and dismantle their criminal networks."

To report suspicious behaviour or drug dealing visit the Sussex Police website.