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20 July 2004 D6/2004
Downland secures first prison term under new legislation
The first prison sentence in the country to be imposed under new anti social behaviour legislation was secured by Downland Housing Association today (July 20).
The new legislation came into force on June 30 and allows social landlords to bring action against people who are not their own tenants, but who are adversely affecting the lives of people within homes owned by them.
An injunction was brought against Ricky Fitzgerald (27) by Downland on July 07 this year following a catalogue of anti social behaviour including verbal abuse and driving dangerously around the Haywards Heath area. The power of arrest was attached to all seven of the injunction’s conditions and Downland in partnership with the Sussex Police brought six breaches before the court today.
His Honour Judge Hayward sitting at Brighton County Court sent a clear message out to those he described as “neighbours from hell” when he sentenced Fitzgerald to nine months imprisonment.
“I am delighted that the court has taken these offences seriously and that the residents of Bentswood have been offered a means of protection by this new legislation,” said Kevin Day, Area Manager for Downland Housing Association.
“People are entitled to enjoy where they live without the worry of a few mindless people spoiling it and I hope that this prison sentence will deter others from behaving in an anti social way.
“The courts have sent a clear message that they will back us in our battle against anti social behaviour and the success of this case also shows the value of working in partnership with the police and the community.
“I would like to thank the witnesses who attended court today,” he added .
Downland is committed to tackling anti social behaviour and will continue to use the powers, old and new, to protect the people who live in its homes.