A homeless man in Wigan Borough who breached an injunction order has been sentenced to prison, after being caught begging.
Roy Smalley, 46, from Scholes but of no fixed address was sentenced to 21 days’ imprisonment for numerous incidents where he has been witnessed begging in Wigan town centre.
As a result, Smalley breached an injunction order under Section 222 of the Local Government Act 1972.
Wigan Council’s safer environment and CCTV teams – along with Greater Manchester Police – say they have worked together over the last two years to prevent anti-social behaviour such as begging, including securing this injunction order, which prevents individuals from begging or approaching people for money.
The order also prevents nuisance behaviour or acting in a manner which might be intimidating and/or offensive or drunk and disorderly, in an attempt to make the town centre a safer environment.
The council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Councillor Kevin Anderson, said:
“Wigan Council enforcement officers and Greater Manchester Police work closely to stop anti-social behaviour and aggressive begging from happening in the borough.
“There will be severe consequences for anyone who ignores the order and it should deter beggars in the future.”
Any individuals found begging are referred to The Brick Project, which provides support for homeless and disadvantaged people in the borough and helps them recover and get their lives back on track.
Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers
Duncan Lewis can advise at any stage of a charge for anti-social behaviour, including public order offences such as begging, noise intrusion, threatening behaviour, graffiti, busking or alcohol-related offences.
There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and in most major towns – and a criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a police station within an hour to advise on public order offences and anti-social behaviour orders.
For expert legal advice on public order charges, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.
For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.