What is anti-social behaviour?

Anti-social behaviour is an activity by individuals that may have a persistent damaging impact or effect on the quality of life within a community.

As everybody has the right to live in an environment free from harassment, intimidation, constant fear and distress, the introduction of new legislation to impose the power of Anti-Social Behaviour Orders came into force in April 1999.

In today's society nobody needs to feel vulnerable and intimidated, as we are actively undertaking initiatives tackling anti-social behaviour issues within our communities within Broxbourne.

 

Anti-social behaviour covers a wide spectrum of issues and therefore may be covered by several departments within Broxbourne Council or other outside multi-agencies.  Although this list is not exhaustive, the following are examples of anti-social behaviour;

  •       Harassment of residents or passers-by
  •       Verbal abuse 
  •       Criminal damage
  •       Vandalism
  •       Noise nuisance
  •       Writing graffiti
  •       Engaging in threatening behaviour in large groups
  •       Racial abuse
  •       Smoking or drinking alcohol while under age
  •       Substance misuse
  •       Joyriding
  •       Throwing missiles
  •       Assault

 

What can I do about anti-social behaviour?

Many acts of an anti-social nature are criminal offences in their own right and therefore must be reported to the police in the first instance.

The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 enables the Police and local Council to take positive legal action against individuals or groups responsible for anti-social behaviour.  If this type of anti-social behaviour is reducing the quality of life within your neighbourhood or community – we need the following assistance:

  • We require a complainant to report the incident to the police if it is of a criminal nature – noting any police log number at the time the incident is reported.            
  • For the police to take action against the responsible individuals for any criminal offence they need evidence. This usually requires the complainant to make a written statement, possibly giving evidence in court. If, however, the complainant feels reluctant to make a statement and or attend court the complaint can still be acted upon without the fear of further reprisals.
  • Keep log sheets – the log sheets are your own personal record of what you see and hear. It needs to be completed immediately where possible, whilst the incident is still fresh in your mind. It should include everything you see or hear, in as much detail as possible, this may include any swear words or names that you might have heard and must portray a truthful account of the incident.
  • Log Sheets can be downloaded from the related link on the right of the page or obtained by calling the community safety team on 01992 785555.
  • The information recorded on the log sheets will be used to help the police and the local authority to decide if a case has been established and what is the best remedy to be applied.
  • A police officer and/or the anti-social behaviour co-ordinator will then liaise with the complainant regarding the evidence collected and what course of action is intended.
  • Any information the complainant has provided will be held on a confidential database only for the purpose of reducing anti-social behaviour and in accordance with the Data Protection Act. It may be shared with partner agencies where necessary to prevent further crime and disorder.