A social housing tenant in Hackney, east London has been evicted after physically assaulting neighbours and causing “relentless” verbal abuse.
Social housing publisher 24Dash.com reports that Dennis McDonald, of Charles Burton Court in Homerton was evicted on 12 August by Hackney Homes.
The court heard that the Hackney Homes estate safety and anti-social behaviour team had received reports from several households on the estate involving McDonald’s intimidating and threatening behaviour.
The police had also arrested McDonald on several occasions for his behaviour.
McDonald had received a Suspension Possession Order (SPO) from Clerkenwell and Shoreditch court on 18 December 2014, which gave Hackney Homes ownership of the property if McDonald did not comply with the Order.
The court gave McDonald a final opportunity to change his behaviour and not to cause a nuisance, annoyance or threaten use of violence under the conditions of the SPO.
However, he went on to assault his neighbour’s visitor – and also assaulted a second neighbour in front of his young children.
Hackney Homes has worked with McDonald in the last two years, including meetings and referrals to drug and alcohol team, to help him tackle alcohol misuse.
However, it is reported McDonald “failed to engage” with the services recommended, even after it became a condition of the SPO.
Hackney Council cabinet member for housing, Councillor Philip Glanville, said:
“The safety and welfare of residents is our primary concern – and violence and anti-social behaviour is not tolerated.
“In this case, the actions of Mr McDonald left us with no other choice but to evict, helping to ensure the safety of his neighbours and others around him.
“We want to encourage residents experiencing anti-social behaviour to report it in confidence to the estate safety and anti-social behaviour team.”
Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors
Duncan Lewis housing solicitors can advise on a wide range of housing matters, including anti-social behaviour and harassment, council’s obligation to re-house, Notice to Quit and unlawful eviction.
There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide – and Duncan Lewis offers both Legal Aid and competitively priced private client services for housing matters.
For expert legal advice on housing law, call Duncan Lewis housing solicitors on 020 7923 4020.