New legislation to benefit anti-social behaviour victims in Poole

Dorset residents have recently welcomed the introduction of “The Community Trigger”, a measure that will allow residents of Poole who are victims of persistent anti social behaviour (ABS) to request a review of the situation. The new system comes into operation, following changes to legislation under the new Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, in the hope that the new legislation will give the local community further options to take action.

The measure allows any Dorset-residing citizen, community or business that has previously reported anti-social behaviour three times or more, to request a review by police, authorities and other agencies. This is expected to improve the quality of protection for victims and communities in the local area.

“The Community Trigger’ will allow us, along with partner agencies, to look again at other ways we may be able to respond to reports of ASB, with each agency bringing their own experience and expertise to find a resolution,” says Ian Cooke, Safer Communities Manager, Borough of Poole, adding that the “Borough of Poole and Dorset Police will not tolerate anti-social behaviour, and this new initiative further demonstrates our determination to tackle unacceptable behaviour in our communities."

Cllr Karen Rampton, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, claims that action against anti-social behaviour in the Borough of Poole has already been significant, with reports showing an 11% reduction in recorded incidents in 2013/14.

An ‘Antisocial Behaviour Order’ (ASBO) can be issued to anyone over the age of 10 if they behave antisocially, and this can include drunken or threatening behaviour, vandalism (including graffiti) and playing loud music at night, to name a few key examples. Once given an ASBO, which lasts a minimum of 2 years, offenders will be forbidden from doing specific things, such as going to a particular place or spending time with certain people who are known to be troublemakers. Breaching the rules set out in an ASBO will result in penalties, including fines of up to £5,000 and prison sentences of up to 5 years.

Local residents who need to report anti-social behaviour can contact the police non-emergency number on 101, or call the Borough of Poole on 01202 633438 during working hours.