Anti-social tenant jailed

A Stevenage Homes tenant has been sent to prison for 28 days for serious and repeated anti-social behaviour.

On 16 December Luton County Court heard that Theresa Port, of Angle Ways, Stevenage, had breached an anti-social behaviour injunction (ASBI) by playing loud music through her television.

Miss Port was first handed the ASBI in August 2010 and was given a suspended sentence in October this year having continued to behave anti-socially. The ASBI forbade her from playing loud music and shouting, swearing or threatening behaviour towards neighbours. Stevenage Homes and local police have been working with Theresa and her neighbours to try and improve her behaviour and allow those who live nearby to enjoy their homes in peace. She had been warned that if her bad behaviour continued, she would go to prison.

Speaking about the decision Cllr Ann Webb, portfolio holder for housing at Stevenage Borough Council said,
‘No one should have to live with anti-social behaviour. I hope that loosing her freedom will show Miss Port that we will not tolerate anyone who makes life a misery for their neighbours and this will encourage her to change her ways. Miss Port’s neighbours can now be assured of a peaceful Christmas break and I would like to thank them for helping our staff and the police to gather evidence which has resulted in the court’s decision.’

Stevenage Safer Neighbourhoods Officer PC Andy Spencer added: ‘Law abiding residents have a right to live in peace in their own communities. Anyone who behaves anti socially should know that we will work in partnership to deal with it in a robust manner. The majority of people should not suffer for an individual’s selfish behaviour.’

Stevenage Homes is now seeking a possession order to remove Theresa Port from the property permanently.

To report any anti-social behaviour contact your Tenancy Advisor or the Anti-Social Behaviour Team (tel: 01438 242666) or visit our web site at www.stevenagehomes.org.uk