| Scottish Executive figures show there were 20 ASBO cases in 2003/04 in Dundee and 14 in Fife, putting them in second and third place behind North Lanarkshire, on 31.
The figures were released by Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry in response to a parliamentary question from West of Scotland MSP Bruce McFee.
In contrast, in nine local authorities, including Perth and Kinross, no ASBOs were granted at all. In another 18, the totals are in single figures, including Angus with one.
Dundee City Council has been at the forefront of taking action against anti-social behaviour. The local authority has a dedicated anti-social behaviour team and makes use of anti-social behaviour and secures tenancy orders in a bid to stamp out the problem.
A council spokeswoman said, “Anti-social behaviour orders are one of a range of initiatives the city council uses to deal with problem behaviour. The council is determined to ensure that the lives of decent law-abiding people are not spoiled by people who have no regard for others in the community.
“If anyone does have any problems they can call the anti-social behaviour advice line on 0800 169 3845.”
A spokesman for the Scottish Executive said, “ASBOs are an important tool and have been used effectively by many local authorities. However, authorities are not required to apply for ASBOs, either in all or in particular circumstances.”
It is now possible for ASBOs to be applied to someone as young as 12. Breach of an ASBO is a criminal offence and can result in fines or imprisonment.
The figures show that between 2001-2004, 315 anti-social behaviour orders have been granted by Scots courts – including 34 in Dundee and 50 in Fife. |
