68 arrests made in eight-week crackdown on crime in Northampton town centre

Thirty-seven charges were also secured for offences ranging from theft and assault to weapons and drug offences during the summer operation.

The figures have been released following the conclusion of Operation Workforce, which ran between July 12 and September 5 and saw neighbourhood officers increase their presence around the town centre.

Northamptonshire Police said the 37 charges represented a 48.9 per cent detection rate. Three out-of-court disposals were also issued and three people were required to attend court by postal requisition.

Officers carried out 14 stop searches and submitted 32 intelligence reports during the operation.

But the eight-week initiative extended beyond enforcement, with 68 safeguarding referrals made for people identified as needing additional help or protection.

Police worked alongside West Northamptonshire Council, Veolia and anti-social behaviour teams, including efforts to engage with people experiencing homelessness and offer support.

Businesses were visited daily by officers, while retailers and other stakeholders were able to raise concerns directly with police and the council at meetings held during July and August.

The Northampton Town Centre Action and Response Scheme was used to share information between police and businesses.

Other activity included a weapons sweep, youth engagement through Free2Talk sessions and weekly Beat Bus surgeries in Market Square.

Sergeant Anna Wyburn, from Northamptonshire Police’s neighbourhood policing team, said the results demonstrated what could be achieved when police and partner agencies worked together.

She said: “While enforcement has played a key role, the operation has also focused on supporting businesses, identifying people who need additional help and improving confidence in Northampton town centre.

“The arrests, charges and safeguarding referrals achieved over the summer reflect the commitment of everyone involved.”

Sergeant Wyburn said officers had also spent time listening to businesses, engaging with young people and supporting those who needed help.

Although Operation Workforce has now ended, she said police would continue working with partners to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in Northampton town centre.

Crime and suspicious activity can be reported to Northamptonshire Police online or by calling 101, while emergencies should be reported via 999.