Police get closure order to shut down drugs den

Dec 18 2008 by Sam Wood, The Journal

A HOUSE in Newcastle’s West End has been closed by police after residents complained about drug problems at the property.

On December 12, at the request of Northumbria Police, Newcastle Magistrates’ Court issued a closure order for 48 Drybeck Court under the Antisocial Behaviour Act.

Neighbourhood Sergeant Kevin Benson said: “The application was made in response to community concerns about suspected drug dealing and anti-social behaviour taking place at the property and the effect it was having on the area.

“Residents made a number of complaints to police and the local housing office. We worked with our partners, including the local authority, to gather evidence, and this culminated in the closure order being granted.

“This demonstrates that when an issue is brought to our attention, we’ll work together with our partners to take the appropriate action to resolve the problem. The law-abiding residents living in these flats shouldn’t have to tolerate the inappropriate behaviour of individuals in the vicinity. Hopefully securing this closure order will have a positive effect on the area and the quality of life for local residents.”

This was the fourth closure order issued in Newcastle and the second in the West End.

Executive member for community safety and regulation, Coun Anita Lower, said: “This is an example of effective partnership working to ensure that residents in Newcastle are not subject to anti-social behaviour.

“We will always do our best to ensure that those making life a misery for others by behaving anti-socially are dealt with quickly and appropriately, in this case the closure of the property.”

Anyone with information about drug use or supply in their community can contact the Neighbourhood Team on 03456 043 043 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.