Local councils to get petty crime experts
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Anti-crime "ambassadors" will be posted to dozens of local authorities across Britain to clamp down on loutish behaviour, the Home Office said yesterday.
Anti-crime "ambassadors" will be posted to dozens of local authorities across Britain to clamp down on loutish behaviour, the Home Office said yesterday.
Up to 50 councils have signed up for specialist help in cutting crime and operating new anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) under the initiative.
The "ambassadors", drawn from the Home Office and successful local councils, will hold "action days" to advise police and local government officials on cutting anti-social behaviour and implementing the ASBOs, a spokesman said. Around 2,600 orders have been issued since they were introduced in 1999. Orders ban offenders from carrying out specific acts or entering particular areas for up to two years. David Blunkett, the Home Secretary, wants to increase their use as part of a drive to end petty crime.
Under the programme, local councils can apply for advice on specific problems. Expert officials will then draw up an action plan and monitor progress.
Mr Blunkett wants to cut anti-social behaviour by 15 per cent by 2008 but youth workers fear more orders are nothing more than a "quick fix".