Three closure orders obtained in North Northamptonshire

Police officers in North Northamptonshire have obtained three closure orders which protect the local community from crime and anti-social behaviour.

The first was obtained on October 3 at Northampton Magistrates’ Court following persistent reports of anti-social behaviour and crime at the address in Wansford Place, Corby, with evidence suggesting the resident was being cuckooed.

'Cuckooing' is a crime in which drug dealers take over the home of a vulnerable person in order to use it as a base.

The three-month closure order prohibits anyone aside from the homeowner and his support network from accessing the property, and anyone unauthorised entering the address will be arrested.

The second and third orders were obtained at properties in Jobs Court, Kettering, after police officers received numerous reports of anti-social behaviour and crime taking place at the addresses. Both orders were granted in October and will also last for three months.

As with the Wansford Place case, anyone unauthorised entering the address will be arrested.

ASB and Civil Orders Officer - PC Isabelle Nottage, said: “I am really pleased with these results as the addresses in question were causing untold misery to local residents with some of the behaviour reported including drug dealing, drug use, violence, and prostitution.

“The public should not be caused to feel unsafe in and around their homes and this sends a clear message to those that choose to cause others to feel this way, that this behaviour won’t be tolerated.

“This is a great example of police and partner agencies working together, alongside our communities, to tackle anti-social behaviour, and I would like to thank North Northamptonshire Council, the Corby and Kettering Neighbourhood Policing Teams, and PA Housing for their continued support and assistance in tackling problem addresses like these three.

“Northamptonshire Police will continue to work closely with partner agencies, and we will use both criminal and civil enforcement to ensure real accountability for those whose behaviour blights our communities.”

Gregory Wilcox, North Northamptonshire Council's Executive Member for Communities, said: "North Northamptonshire Council takes anti-social behaviour extremely seriously. We will not tolerate it, and I hope these orders show that we will do all we can to stop it and the enormous impact it creates.

"This constant behaviour was causing real harm to the wellbeing of the community, so it was important we all took action. We will continue to work closely in the areas concerned alongside tenants and residents to deter future offences.

“Thank you to everyone who came forward to report to us – your information was vital in our investigation.”

The local policing team will be carrying out patrols in the areas concerned to ensure the orders are not being breached. We urge members of the public to report any concerns to them. Alternatively, reports can be made online or by calling 101. In an emergency, calls should always be made to 999. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crimestoppers via 0800 555111.