Partial closure order issued to tackle drug dealing and anti-social behaviour in Melton

Melton Borough Council and Melton Police have secured a three month partial closure order on a property in Melton Town Centre after after local residents raised concerns of serious anti-social behaviour and drug offences occurring at the property.

The order was granted at Leicester Magistrates Court on Tuesday 22 November under section 80 the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 and is now in place for three-months.

A Melton Borough Council spokesperson said: "Officers from Melton Borough Council took action to secure the closure order after the tenant repeatedly ignored the advice, warnings, and support of the Safer Communities team and Police by allowing visitors to regularly cause nuisance and annoyance to residents nearby.

The tenant and their associates took part in multiple incidents of drug misuse, excessive noise nuisance and threatening behaviour to other residents in the neighbourhood."

The notice was issued at Leicester Magistrates Court yesterday. Photo: NEMM File Photo.

The partial Closure Order now prohibits anyone from entering the property, except the tenant and those specified on the notice for the period of three-months. Anyone breaching the order could be arrested and, if found guilty, could face a custodial sentence and/or a fine.

Councillor Malise Graham, Portfolio Holder for People and Communities, said: “Our Safer Communities team continuously work to improve the lives of our residents. The behaviour that was occurring is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. It is clear that it was having a profound negative impact on those living in the area, who felt intimidated and fearful in their own homes.

“This partial Closure Order sends out a strong message that Melton Borough Council does not tolerate drug misuse and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to work together with Leicestershire Police and partners, using legal action, where appropriate, to ensure residents are protected and feel safe in our communities.”

Melton Police have this week successfully shut down a property in Rutland Street in Melton following drug activity.

PC Shane from Melton Police Station said: "After reports from members of the public about ongoing ASB and drug use at an address, the Police alongside Melton Borough Council have applied for and been issued with a full closure order at this property.

A closure order prevents all from living at the address and makes it an offence to remain at the property.

Without the support and reports from the community this would not have been achievable. Also, the efforts of PC 4248 Ball to get the case file ready for court.

The property has now been Sitex'd and will remain like this for 3 months."

Anti-social behaviour can be reported online at www.melton.gov.uk/asb or by calling 01664 502 502.