A 45 year old woman and her 26 year old boyfriend from Newton Abbot who continued to make their neighbours’ life hell, were evicted for the second time on Wednesday, April 6 following tough action from Teignbridge District Council and Devon and Cornwall Police, for a period of three months.
Dawn Lewis the owner of Flat 4, 89 Wolborough Street, and her partner James Ryan, were formally evicted for two months when Magistrates at Exeter Magistrates Court granted another closure order after the pair have continued to be a frequent source of anti-social behaviour, causing misery and fear for other residents.
The couple’s home was first closed for two months on September 27 last year, under the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003 and Section 118 of Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, following a number of complaints from residents.
However, the court heard that since then there has been no improvement in the couple’s behaviour with police responding to over 12 disturbances at the property for issues including domestic violence, verbal abuse, loud music and criminal damage.
Teignbridge Police Superintendent Jim Meakin said: “Serving a second closure order to the same home owner is almost unprecedented, and indicates the severity of the problem caused by these individuals.
“Ms Lewis, along with her partner and friends, have inflicted a great deal of suffering and distress to those living nearby. They were given ample opportunity to modify their behaviour following their first eviction, but have chosen not to heed the advice offered.”
Anyone removed from their home under the powers are considered intentionally homeless by Teignbridge Council, meaning they will not be eligible for help finding other housing within the district.
Andy Davies, Teignbridge Anti-Social Behaviour Officer, said: “The success of this second eviction sends a clear message that we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour. Nobody should have to live with this kind of persistent anti-social behaviour from their neighbours.
“We are fortunate that Teignbridge is a low crime area and our residents should be reassured that, although it is not easy for people to come forward in circumstances like this, we are grateful for their assistance and will continue to work hard to alleviate problems of anti-social behaviour.”
(from a press release)
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