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Police set to name and shame offenders

Sue Carr
8/ 6/2005

PEOPLE who cause misery for communities because of their anti-social behaviour are to be named and shamed by police.

Chief Superintendent Roger Flint, Divisional Commander of B Division, said: "We will take this step in extreme cases in order to bring as much attention as possible onto the few people who cause untold misery in our communities.

"There are a range of measures which we now use to address anti-social behaviour, starting at low level by issuing warnings or writing to parents advising them about their children's behaviour.

"If a person is subject to an Anti Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) issued by a court, then the local media will report proceedings. Normally a photograph of the person involved will be issued. I will then take the decision as to how the ASBO is publicised further.

"The decision will not be taken lightly and I will take responsibility for it. Additional publicity could include leaflet drops in a particular area. I'm considering these measures because this area is a very safe and peaceful place and I aim to keep it that way."

Inspector Tony Dales, of Derbyshire Police Community Intellegence Unit, added: "Our aim is, if someone with an ASBO is in your area, to say this is what they have been up to, this is what they are not allowed to do, and to let us know if they are because we will act.

"We have been using dispersal orders in Glossop and sending out warning letters, but ASBOs are a very last resort."

Both the High Peak and Derbyshire Dales Community Safety Partnerships have identified reducing anti-social behaviour and targeting prolific offenders as a priority.