Respect Orders coming into effect this week will let courts restrict repeat adult offenders and require treatment, with Bournemouth West’s MP backing their use locally. New Respect Orders will give agencies in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole powers over repeat adult offenders. The orders come into effect this week and are designed for cases where antisocial behaviour is repeatedly affecting local streets, high streets and public spaces, with police, councils and housing associations able to seek court restrictions. Courts will be able to ban adults from specific behaviour linked to thei
New Respect Orders will give agencies in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole powers over repeat adult offenders.
The orders come into effect this week and are designed for cases where antisocial behaviour is repeatedly affecting local streets, high streets and public spaces, with police, councils and housing associations able to seek court restrictions.
Courts will be able to ban adults from specific behaviour linked to their antisocial behaviour, such as public drinking in a set area, and can also require action including drug or alcohol treatment.
Breaching a Respect Order will be a criminal offence, with possible arrests, fines, community sentences and, in the most serious cases, prison sentences of up to two years for offenders who breach them.
Jessica Toale MP, who represents Bournemouth West, said she had heard from residents about the effect on quality of life, high streets and public spaces, adding that “the same few people” often cause disruption.
The MP said the orders give authorities “more powers” to deal with people who ignore rules, and said she would keep working with police and the council so residents’ concerns are heard.
