NCJ Number
195097
Date Published
January 2002
Length
138 pages
Annotation
This report provides an overview of how Britain's antisocial behavior orders (ASBOs) are working almost 3 years after their implementation, and recommendations are offered to help practitioners tailor their strategies to counter antisocial behavior in their jurisdictions.
Abstract
ASBOs were introduced under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. They have been available to the police and local authorities since April 1999, and they may be used against any person 10 years old or over who has acted in an antisocial manner. ASBOs are civil orders designed to deter antisocial behavior and prevent the escalation of such behavior without resorting to criminal sanctions; a breach may give rise to criminal proceedings and penalties, however. This review evaluated the effectiveness of ASBOs in dealing with antisocial behavior and identified best practices in how they are being used. It also examined the concerns of practitioners, considered how the orders work in practice, and developed suggestions about how improvements can be made. The evaluation obtained relevant statistics from the Home Office, information from a sample of case files for 9 areas throughout the country, interviews in 14 areas, a questionnaire on hours and costs involved in using ASBOs, and a follow-up of cases to determine whether and how ASBOs had been breached. The overall opinions in the areas visited were generally positive. When used effectively, ASBOs have curbed unruly behavior, helped rebuild the quality of life in communities, and nurtured good relationships both between partner agencies and these agencies and the community. Delays in the process are a major concern. Some areas of the country are using many ASBOs; whereas, others are using very few. This may be because of a lack of strategic support or the existence of other means for countering antisocial behavior. Recommendations pertain to the development of clear policies and efficient procedures for implementing ASBOs. These include speeding up the process for obtaining legal aid in ASBO cases, witness protection both before and after the order is granted, and the provision of technical assistance to enhance the use and effectiveness of ASBOs. 10 tables, 2 figures, 12 references, and appended methodology and additional tables