Police in Wadebridge secure closure order to tackle ASB
A property in Wadebridge that became a hotspot for antisocial behaviour (ASB) becomes a no-go zone for visitors after officers serve tenants with a partial closure order.
The tenants of a property located in Belmont Court were served with a three-month partial closure order which was granted on Tuesday 17 June at Bodmin Magistrates Court under Section 80 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime & Policing Act.
The order, which was obtained by the Wadebridge neighbourhood team and local partners, makes it an offence for anyone other than the two named residents to be inside the premises.
Individuals who do not follow this order can face criminal prosecution.
Police received reports from local residents about large gatherings of people visiting the address, including those under the age of 18, who were responsible for causing persistent ASB in and around the property.
Reports included significant noise disturbances and suspected drug use. There were also instances of the visitors knocking on the windows of other homes and throwing water balloons at nearby properties.
“No one should be made to feel unsafe, worried or intimidated in the area they live in,” said Inspector Adam Stonehill, who heads up the neighbourhood police team in Wadebridge.
“This property became a hive of ASB activity, so it was important that we took action to stop this behaviour from having a negative impact on the livelihoods of residents, including those with young families.”
Commenting on the work ahead, Insp Stonehill added: “Whilst this is only a temporary order, the aim is that this will provide relief for residents by preventing ASB from happening at the address.
“We’ll continue to work closely within the community to make sure the order is being followed, while engaging with the tenants to prevent further ASB from happening in the future.
“I’d also like to say thank you those who reported this issue to us – I hope this shows that we are listening and that we do take your reports seriously.”
The partial closure order was obtained in collaboration with the neighbourhood police team, Devon & Cornwall Police legal team the local councils ASB team.
If you are experiencing similar issues or antisocial behaviour in your area, or would like to raise concerns with the police, please report them on our website. If a crime is taking place, call 999.
If you have been affected by crime, please visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.