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Cracking down on alcohol-related crime and disorder

People aged 16 and over who regularly commit crime or anti-social behaviour while under the influence of the alcohol could be served with a Drinking Banning Order (DBO).

Under the DBO, or 'booze ASBO', magistrates can impose any conditions they think is necessary to protect the public and prevent that person from committing further offences.

Conditions could include:

• banning them from drinking alcohol in public places
  
• banning them from certain pubs, bars and off-licences
  
• stopping them from entering certain areas
  

The orders can last from between two months and two years and anyone who breaches a DBO is liable for a fine of up to £2,500.

Offenders who are subject to an order can be referred a Positive Behaviour Intervention Course to address their alcohol misuse. Successful completion of the course may lead to a reduction in the length of the order.

Home Office Minister Alan Campbell said: "Tackling crime and disorder linked to alcohol is one of our top priorities and we have made real progress but with the cost to the UK totalling billions of pounds a year we know there is still more to be done.

"These orders will stop those people who are well known to the authorities, licencees and often the communities where they live, from ruining lives and will make them face up to their destructive behaviour.

"If irresponsible drinkers do not accept support, these orders will ensure that they face some very real consequences."

Further information

• Town centre safety and crime prevention (home and community section)

• Anti-social behaviour (crime, justice and the law section)

• Parenting Orders, ASBOS and other behaviour orders (parents section)