A flat in Snodland that was reportedly the source of repeated complaints of anti-social behaviour and harassment has been shut down by Kent Police.
The flat in Pollyfields Close was subject to a closure order issued by Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Friday 24 November 2023, after a local resident was accused of causing nuisance and criminal behaviour to his neighbours.
The order, under Section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, prohibits anyone, except the landlord, from entering the flat. Anyone who breaches the order could face prison or an unlimited fine.
Kent Police’s Tonbridge and Malling Community Safety Unit, along with the force’s legal services and Central Prevention Command, applied for the order after receiving numerous reports of anti-social behaviour and harassment, between July and November 2023, from the flat.
Inspector Terry Newman said:
‘We recognised that the flat in Snodland was having a negative impact on the quality of life of the surrounding residents, who had to endure anti-social behaviour and harassment from the occupant.
‘This order will provide relief to the residents and allow us to work with the housing officers to prevent any further crime and disorder at the flat, using all the powers we have to deal with such cases firmly and to bring them to court.’
The 61-year-old occupant, appeared before the same court charged with harassment without violence and assault, and has been remanded in custody until his next hearing on Wednesday 3 January 2024.