British Transport Police and West Midlands Railway partner to tackle anti-social behaviour on Chase Line

Following an increase in youth anti-social behaviour incidents across the Chase Line (Birmingham New Street to Walsall to Rugeley), British Transport Police (BTP) is increasing patrols using targeted operations.

The patrols will include covert and overt officers with BTP working alongside West Midlands Trains and Network Rail to reduce anti-social behaviour and ensure that everyone can travel safely.

BTP Inspector Paul Finlayson said: “Through partnership working we’re working tirelessly to deter criminality and anti-social behaviour on the railway network, and we’re stepping up our patrols across this line using targeted operations.

"We need parents to have some awareness of where their children and young people are. We have seen an increase in anti-social behaviour from teenagers and need to work with parents to ensure their children are not involved and remind them of the dangers and potential impact of being involved in criminality.

“We want people to look after themselves this season and enjoy themselves, and we ask everyone to be sensible and considerate of other passengers. If we do get called out to anti-social behaviour incidents we will take action as the railway needs to be a safe place for everyone using the network.

“Passengers continue to be our eyes and ears and they can help us by reporting crimes and concerns by texting 61016.”

Jonny Wiseman, West Midlands Railway customer experience director, said: “The safety of our passengers and staff is our top priority and I welcome these additional British Transport Police patrols on the Chase Line in response to an increase in anti-social behaviour along the route.

“West Midlands Trains remains committed to working in partnership with the police and Network Rail and we fully support this targeted action to help prevent such incidents.”