Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (continued).

Only the Police or Local Authority can take action. They must consult with each other before applying for an Order. An Order is only available in respect of persons aged 10 years or over. Application is made to the local Magistrates Court.

The Order is aimed at patterns of persistent anti-social behaviour in the community which fall short of criminal activity.

The Order has to be necessary to protect persons in the relevant Local Authority area. Once granted the minimum duration of an Order is 2 years.

The type of conduct in respect of which an Order can be sought would include threats of violence, intimidation, abusive language etc. However, it has to be persistent.

If a person breaches an Order, this constitutes an arrestable offence punishable by imprisonment or a fine or both.

 

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