The Metropolitan Police have faced backlash after advising residents in northwest London to play classical music as a way to deter drug gangs and criminals in the area.
Residents of St John’s Wood have reported a surge in drug-fuelled crimes, including smashed car windows, daylight drug deals, and even individuals taking crack cocaine on residential doorsteps. One resident recounted a chilling threat from a drug dealer, who warned he would be “shot and chopped up” after attempting to confront them.
Police advice sparks controversy
A businessman living near the iconic Abbey Road recording studio told The Sun that he had documented numerous crimes and shared images with the Met Police in hopes of action. However, he was met with an email response from a police constable suggesting unconventional methods to address the situation.
The email advised:
“Should you witness an incident, film it if safe to do so, and call 999. You can also contact your housing association/the council and ask them to play classical music as this has proven to deter and prevent crimes.”
Curiously, the email also cautioned against playing music at excessive volumes, noting that this could lead to other complaints.
The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed disbelief at the recommendation, saying:
“Are the police on another planet? It’s crazy that they thought this would solve the problem.”
He further revealed that 22 residents had approached the police over recent incidents, including nearly 20 car break-ins in the area.
Classical music as a deterrent
The suggestion of using classical music is not without precedent. Studies have shown that playing classical compositions in public spaces, such as transport networks, can reduce instances of criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.
For example, Northern Rail has reportedly seen a decrease in loitering and nuisance behaviour by broadcasting Handel, Beethoven, and Mozart at 35 of its stations. Similarly, McDonald’s has employed this tactic in some restaurants to discourage disruptive behaviour.
However, critics argue that such measures are more appropriate in controlled environments and may not address the root causes of serious crime.
Mixed reactions from residents and experts
The advice has drawn mixed reactions from residents, many of whom feel it trivialises their concerns. A resident noted:
“We’re dealing with people who are openly using and dealing drugs, threatening residents, and breaking into vehicles. It’s hard to imagine classical music stopping them.”
Others acknowledged the potential benefits of the tactic in specific contexts but stressed the need for a more robust police response to the crime wave.
Official response from the met police
The Metropolitan Police issued a statement clarifying that the advice given in the email did not align with official policy. A spokesperson said:
“While clearly well-intentioned, the advice in the email sent to the resident in this case doesn’t reflect Met policy.”
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The police added that they are committed to addressing the issues raised by the St John’s Wood community and are working on targeted measures to combat crime in the area.
Broader implications
The incident has raised questions about the police’s approach to tackling crime in affluent areas like St John’s Wood. While unconventional methods such as classical music might have merit in some scenarios, residents are calling for a more proactive and visible police presence to address the underlying problems.
This episode has also sparked a wider conversation about resource allocation within the Met Police and whether neighbourhoods are receiving adequate support to combat rising crime.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the advice to play classical music highlights the frustrations of residents who feel their concerns are not being taken seriously. As the Met Police face mounting pressure to deliver tangible results, the spotlight remains firmly on their ability to respond effectively to the community’s needs.
For now, the residents of St John’s Wood remain sceptical of the suggestion, continuing to push for meaningful action to reclaim their neighbourhood from the grip of drug gangs and criminal activity.
