Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
ASBOS OUT OF ORDER
System ‘not effective’ Charity in reform
THE rising number of anti-social behaviour cases here has shown a high-profile bid to combat it was ineffective, campaigners say.
The tally of nuisance incidents has hit its highest level for five years but Antisocial Behaviour Orders (Asbos) were taken out just twice in 2015/16.
The Justice Department is considering their future as part of a review aimed at addressing problem behaviour including noise, drunkenness and vandalism.
The Northern Ireland Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders said: “It would appear Asbos merely reinforced people’s anxieties and stigmatised them further.”
In 2017 to 2018, the number of antisocial behaviour incidents was 61,207.
This continues the increase seen during 2016 to 2017 and is the highest level seen over the last five years.
Niacro added: “In 2015/16 there were 59,502 anti-social behaviour incidents recorded by the PSNI.
“In the same year, only two Asbos were handed out, which would support the view they are ineffective. Support and reinforcement of positive behaviour including mentoring, diversionary projects, restorative justice approaches, and working with families have a track record of success, Asbos do not.”
A DOJ spokesman said it was considering responses to its public consultation on potential legislation that may help prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour. He added: “A number of views were received and these will help inform how legislation is developed in the future.”