Anti-social Behaviour and How Cartwright King Can Help

A recent press report revealed that police forces recorded an increase in anti-social behaviour last year, up from 1.3 million incidents in 2019 to 2 million in 2020.

We look at what defines anti-social behaviour and what should you do if you are accused of behaving in such a way?

What is anti-social behaviour and what are Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs)?

Anti-social behaviour is behaviour by a person which causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to persons not of the same household as the person committing them.

There are then 13 broadly recognised types of anti-social behaviour, as defined by the Metropolitan Police, which include:

• Abandoned vehicles
• Vehicle nuisance or inappropriate use
• Rowdy or inconsiderate behaviour
• Rowdy or nuisance neighbours
• Littering or drugs paraphernalia
• Animal problems
• Trespassing
• Nuisance calls
• Street drinking
• Prostitution-related activity
• Nuisance noise
• Begging
• Misuse of fireworks

These definitions are broad, allowing a range of activities to be included for each type. This is fitting given that, as noted above, people’s understanding of anti-social behaviour is based on individual perception and can include a range of behaviours. It recognises the need for local definitions to reflect local problems. *

Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) replaced Anti-social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) in 2014.

Whilst the CBO can be applied as a penalty (strictly speaking it’s an order of the court upon being sentenced) for any of the above, often lasting for a period of up to three years, but not less than one – for a person under 18.

For person(s) over 18 the penalty can last at least two years up to an indefinite timeframe. The CBO may involve restrictions on behaviour, for example not being allowed to visit certain places or associate with certain individuals. Breaching these restrictions could result in fines.

The CBO can also include harsher sentencing than just fines, for any convictions, including:

• Imprisonment for a period not exceeding 6 months or to an unlimited fine, or both.

• On conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 5 years or to an unlimited fine, or to both.

What can Cartwright King do to help if you’re accused of anti-social behaviour?

Head of Crime for Leicester, David Hallmark, said: “CBOs are pretty well recognised by the public these days. That said, people generally aren’t aware of the specific types, and wide range, of behaviour which may place them at risk of having one applied”

“For some, allegations of anti-social behaviour, and the threat of a CBO, put reputation and professional standing at risk, so it’s vital take legal advice as early as possible.”

Why choose Cartwright King’s Criminal Defence team?

Cartwright King is a renowned criminal defence law firm. 70% of our cases involve defending against criminal charges. Our status is built on successfully clearing people accused of criminal activity. We’re trusted, resourceful and remain calm under pressure, giving you defence counsel that you can count on.

The success of defending clients against criminal charges often depends on getting immediate and top-notch legal representation. You can rely on Cartwright King for swift, insightful legal services that keep your case moving.

For rapid and in-depth legal advice about Criminal Defence, or any of our services, call us or get in touch with Cartwright King now.

Check out the full list of offences that the home office recognises as types of anti-social behaviour – These would fall under the broad categories defined by the police. *