Basingstoke Cracks Down on Drug Crime with Tough New Closure Order
Basingstoke’s Neighbourhood Policing Team has taken a stand against drug abuse and anti-social behaviour. They’ve secured a Partial Closure Order on a flat in South Ham, sending a clear warning: troublemakers won’t be tolerated.
Drug-Dealing Flat Shut Down for Three Months
The order, granted by Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on March 6, bans everyone except the tenant, police, and health workers from entering the two-bedroom flat on Paddock Road for three months.
This move follows reports of County Lines drug dealing and persistent anti-social behaviour at the address. The court heard the tenant was a victim of cuckooing—where criminals take over vulnerable people’s homes. The tenant has since vacated the property.
Police and Housing Team Join Forces
Sergeant Carl Holmes said: “Anti-social behaviour was wreaking havoc on the community. The court agreed there was criminal activity and serious nuisance at the property. This Order is vital to stop it.”
Holmes added the Orders aim to protect both residents and vulnerable tenants whose homes are exploited. Hampshire Constabulary worked closely with Sovereign Housing, the landlord involved.
Anti-Social Behaviour Officer Rebecca Lemon said: “Evicting someone is a last resort, but this Order is the best solution here. We’ll keep working with police to tackle anti-social behaviour and hope this sets a precedent for future cases.”
Don’t Suffer in Silence – Report Anti-Social Behaviour
If you face anti-social behaviour where you live, speak up now. Visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/communitysafety for help. You can also call Hampshire Constabulary on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency or if a crime is ongoing.
