A flat in Dover linked to drugs, disorder, and antisocial behaviour has been shut down following a successful police-led closure order.
Police Take Action Against Nuisance Property
Kent Police secured the closure order on Wednesday, February 5, at Margate Magistrates’ Court, targeting a problematic property on Maison Dieu Road that had become a hub for drug use, criminal activity, and antisocial behaviour.
Officers responded to multiple reports of drug and alcohol users frequenting the flat at all hours, engaging in nuisance behaviour, and threatening local residents when confronted.
Concerns were also raised over cuckooing, a practice where vulnerable individuals are exploited by criminals who take over their homes for illegal activities. Police found that the property was in poor condition, with black mould on the walls, further exacerbating concerns for the safety and well-being of its residents.
Court Order Bans Entry for Three Months
The closure order, granted under Section 80 of the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, prohibits anyone—except for emergency services and social services—from entering the flat for three months.
Anyone caught breaching the order faces a custodial sentence or an unlimited fine.
Following the court ruling, police officers attended the flat to secure the property and remove any remaining visitors. A man who refused to leave was arrested at the scene and has since been charged in connection with the incident.
Safeguarding Measures in Place
Authorities worked alongside partner agencies to ensure the vulnerable resident of the flat was relocated to a safer location, protecting them from further exploitation.
Police Reassure Community
PC Michelle Sherwood, who was involved in the case, emphasized that the closure order reflects Kent Police’s commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour and safeguarding vulnerable residents.
**“This application for a closure order is part of the ongoing commitment by Kent Police to tackle antisocial behaviour and provide an effective response to safeguard those affected.
“There had been reports of neighbouring residents being threatened by the visitors to the flat, and there were concerns that the homeowner was also at risk of exploitation.
“We worked with our partner agencies to ensure safeguarding measures were put in place, and we hope the resident, and the wider community, will feel reassured that action has been taken to stop unacceptable behaviour.”**
Ongoing Crackdown on Antisocial Behaviour
Kent Police continue to encourage local residents to report antisocial behaviour and criminal activity, ensuring communities remain safe from nuisance properties and drug-related crime.
Anyone with information about similar issues can report incidents to Kent Police via 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
This is a developing story, and further updates will follow as necessary.
