Anti-Social Driving & Vehicle Offences

The Axminster Neighbourhood Team and Devon and Cornwall Police are working to reduce the number of casualties and road traffic collisions in our area, through proactive work and positive action.

Vehicle crime includes theft from motor vehicles, vehicles being driven without insurance and/or a valid driving licence, vehicle theft, unroadworthy vehicles, and drink and drug driving. Antisocial driving such as speeding, revving, loud music and large car meets also meets this criteria.

Issued 14 October 2025

We have conducted high visibility patrols along the main routes in to and out of Axminster, providing reassurance to motorists and other road users.

Members of the public identified a vehicle being driven in an antisocial manner and also in an unroadworthy condition on FLAX MEADOW LANE, AXMINSTER. This vehicle has been seized and taken off the road.

Further traffic ops will be planned throughout the year.

Actioned 09 January 2026

Reduce Antisocial Behaviour

Antisocial behaviour (ASB) is defined as 'behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person'. There are three main categories of ASB which depends on how many people are affected; personal ASB, nuisance ASB, and environmental ASB. This can include littering, noise, inconsiderate behaviour, nuisance calls, antisocial driving, abandoned vehicles, begging, and street drinking.

To reduce and target ASB in the community the East Devon Neighbourhood team work with partner agencies such as East Devon Council, local schools, local shops, pubs, and Highways.

Issued 14 October 2025

ASB patrols have continued throughout JANUARY, particularly in hot spot areas around the MINSTER GREEN, TESCO and WEST STREET.

As a result of our patrols, a male has been arrested for a number of offences and the investigation is continuing. Off the back of this, the AXMINSTER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM will be applying for a criminal behaviour order. This will give police a power to deal with any further offending.

Further reports of ASB cycling have been received and we will continue to proactively police those who cycle dangerously on the roads in and around Axminster.

Actioned 31 January 2026

Drug Possession and Supply

Drugs can have a devastating social impact on community life and on those who are dependent on them. It can lead to anti-social behaviour, violence, safeguarding concerns, and other crime.

Community intelligence is invaluable to the Police, and without it would limit the ability to gain drug warrants and target offenders. Information from the public helps to prevent and detect crime, whilst ensuring the safeguarding and protection of our community. You may think that the information you hold will not be useful but it may be the final missing piece to the puzzle. If you suspect illegal activity in your area please report it via 101 online or by phone. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Issued 14 October 2025

Officers from AXMINSTER and SEATON Neighbourhood Teams carried out a stop check on a male linked to drug supply. The male was detained using powers under SECTION 23 OF THE MISUSE OF DRUGS ACT.

As a result of the stop, a significant quantity of white powder believed to be class A, cash and mobile phones was discovered in a vehicle linked to the male.

The male was arrested and charged with the offence of Possession with Intent to Supply a Class A drug. The ongoing investigation is currently being handled by CID officers.

Actioned 23 January 2026

Rural Crime & Engagement

Rural crime is an issue for large areas of the country, but it tends to go unreported. It can impact on insurance premiums, food prices, the environment, and can damage local communities.

The Axminster Neighbourhood Team are conducting a visible presence in the rural community to offer reassurance and crime prevention. The aim is to improve connectivity with the rural communities and provide education to users of our beautiful countryside. This includes attending rural events to gain knowledge about the issues effecting the rural communities and to offer the crime prevention advice.

Issued 14 October 2025

Rural engagement took place at MUSBURY, ALL SAINTS and HAWKCHURCH in January with officers visiting each location, conducting foot patrol and spending time speaking to residents.

Further rural engagement to take place throughout the year.

Actioned 07 January 2026