POLICE officers are to increase patrols to tackle young drinkers and alcohol misuse.
Operation Nightsafe will see more patrols at the busiest times in the Langbaurgh area, and licensed premises will be regularly visited to ensure landlords are not breaking the law. Posters and beer mats promoting the operation have also been distributed. The aim of the operation - targeting 18 to 24-year-olds - is to reduce alcohol-related assaults, cut disorder and warn of the dangers of binge drinking.
Superintendent Ian Richards, head of operations for police in Langbaurgh, said: "It is widely accepted that there is a clear link between alcohol consumption, violence and anti-social behaviour, with 40 per cent of violent crime linked to licensed premises and associated alcohol use. The first weekend of targeted patrols resulted in 18 arrests for assault and public order offences."
Cleveland Fire Brigade is also promoting safety in the home, advising people to guard against fires caused by chip pans and cigarettes after a night out drinking.
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