Southampton Troublemaker Banned from City Centre Streets for Two Years
Waheed Safi, 20, of Wilton Avenue, Southampton, faced Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 25 October. He was slapped with a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) after admitting to a public order offence earlier this year.
Covid Rules Clash Sparks Abuse
The trouble started on Friday 13 November 2020. PCSOs on patrol spotted a group flouting Covid gathering limits on St Mary’s Street. When an officer stepped forward to explain the rules, Safi erupted with shouting and abuse.
In March 2021, Safi pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.
City Centre Ban Slams Persistent Offender
On Monday’s hearing, the court handed Safi a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order. He’s banned from key Southampton city centre hotspots including St Mary’s Street, Kingsway, Brintons Road, St Andrews Road, and New Road.
Police Praise Tough Ruling
“This is a great result for the local community,” said Sergeant Tash Prior of Southampton Central Neighbourhood Policing. “Safi is a persistent offender involved in several previous anti-social incidents that have badly affected locals.”
“Criminal Behaviour Orders help stop repeat offenders and curb anti-social behaviour. Thanks to solid police work, we secured this order based on Safi’s repeated disruptions.”
“We want to reassure the public that anti-social behaviour won’t be tolerated in Southampton. We will use every legal tool to keep our communities safe.”
