Asbo offenders set for online exposure under pilot scheme

West Yorkshire Police and Kirklees Council are working together to publish internet photos of those subject to anti-social behaviour orders (Asbos).

The mugshots will appear on the Kirklees section of the neighbourhood policing team website – www.wypnpt.org – to publicise the work being done to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the community.

Those behind the move hope this will make it harder for people to breach the orders.

Officers already urge anyone who suspects others of breaching their Asbos to contact them.

Inspector Steve Forrest, crime and justice co-ordinator for Kirklees, said: "The move to publish the images on the internet is in line with the Government's drive against anti-social behaviour and is part of the justice seen justice done campaign.

"This is a Government initiative which saw the Kirklees District chosen as one of the pilot sites for innovative work to reduce crime, create safer communities and increase public confidence.

"Working with the Kirklees anti-social behaviour unit, we are now able to give details about individuals who are subject to an Asbo and to publish their images.

"It is a reassurance to the community and will also help us police those who are subject to Asbos.

"Once people visit the neighbourhood policing team website for their local area, they will be able to see the conditions of the various orders and be able to report any breaches. If it acts as a deterrent then that is a positive.

"Anti-social behaviour orders are an effective crime-fighting tool, in that they also create the opportunity for people to change their behaviour or get some direction or advice.

"Equally, the Asbo gives us a chance to get people in front of a court. The choice is theirs. They can make life changes if they want to," he said.

Coun Peter O'Neill, the council's cabinet member for safer stronger communities said: "Kirklees was chosen as a pilot area for its innovative work in this area. I hope that this allows us to have an even greater impact on anti-social behaviour across the district, working with our partners to improve everybody's lives."