Police have put up posters in an area of Colchester to remind people of tough new powers given to officers.

New powers - PC Richard Lague and PCSO Tracy Harrington put up dispersal order warnings in the St Anne's area of Colchester. Picture: TERRY WEEDEN (40034-2)

The signs went up in St Anne's after the six-month dispersal order - the first of its kind in this division - has come into force.

It lets police order groups to disperse if they are concerned about their behaviour. And under-16s out between 9pm and 6am can be taken home if officers think it is necessary.

People refusing to comply can be punished with up to three months in prison or a £2,500 fine.

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Published Wednesday, December 29, 2004

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