Calls for station security boost after assault
BBCResidents are calling for more lighting and an increased police presence outside a train station after a man was reportedly assaulted.
The bus stops outside Hartlepool station have become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour, with youths gathering there at night, local people said.
Cleveland Police was called to the area on 24 June after reports of teenagers throwing glass at a taxi and assaulting a man.
The 54-year-old man had minor injuries and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Warning: This article contains a video with graphic content which some may find upsetting.
Officers are looking through CCTV and mobile phone footage. No arrests have yet been made.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said incidents like it had become increasingly common.
"I think it happens because it is dark and there are not many people around this street at night," they said. "We need lighting and police otherwise they are not going to stop."
The resident captured footage of a group of teenagers allegedly harassing a homeless man in one of the bus shelters.
"They jumped on him and beat him up but they ran away as soon as they heard the police sirens," they said.
Ch Insp Andy Liddell said: "Our Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) is committed to tackling the issues that affect our communities the most.
"The team carries out regular patrols to ensure we're visible in our neighbourhoods and engaging with residents.
"We have dedicated officers and PCSOs in each ward who work as part of our NPT.
"Together, they work closely with key partners to address issues including anti-social behaviour through early intervention and problem-solving approaches as we know policing alone cannot solve the issue.
"Whilst we're always proactive in our approach, information from the public remains vital so we can continue to build intelligence and take action."
A Hartlepool Borough Council spokesperson said: "Given that there is an ongoing police investigation, it would be inappropriate for the council to comment."