Repeated instances of drug misuse, noise and other forms of antisocial behaviour have resulted in the enforced closure of a flat in Chatham.
Kent Police applied for a court order following numerous complaints from residents about those living in and visiting the property in Wellington Court, which also included reports of intimidation and threats of violence.
The order was granted by Maidstone magistrates on Wednesday 13 June 2024 meaning that any unauthorised person who enters the flat over the next three months risks being fined and sent to prison. A sign has now been placed on the door warning that it is a criminal offence to go inside without permission.
Detective Chief Inspector Garry Cook, District Commander for Medway, said:
‘The people who resided at and visited this property were causing misery to others living nearby and having a detrimental impact on their quality of life.
‘Everyone has the right to live in peace without becoming a victim of crime or antisocial behaviour. Nobody should feel too intimidated to leave their homes or be kept up at night due to loud music, drug taking or disagreements, and we at Kent Police simply will not tolerate it.
‘We make regular attempts to engage with those responsible for antisocial behaviour and warn them of the likely consequences of their actions. When those warnings are ignored, we do not hesitate to apply for orders such as this to put a stop to their irresponsible and thoughtless actions.’