Antisocial Behaviour Orders (ASBO)

Anyone over the age of 12 can be given an Antisocial Behaviour Order (ASBO) if they behave antisocially.

Behaving antisocially includes:

• drunken or threatening behaviour
• vandalism and graffiti
• playing loud music at night
• driving in an inconsiderate or careless way – such as drivers congregating in an area for racing

If you're given an ASBO this doesn't mean you've been convicted of a crime, and it won't be part of a criminal record. But it is a crime to break the terms of an ASBO.

Getting an ASBO means you won't be allowed to do certain things, such as:

• going to a particular place, such as your local town centre
• spending time with people who may be involved in any trouble
• drinking in the street

An ASBO will last for the length of time stated on the order. It could be reviewed if your behaviour gets better.

What happens if you break the terms of your ASBO

Breaking or 'breaching' your ASBO is a crime and you can be taken to court. The sentence you get will depend on why you broke the terms of your ASBO and your age.

If you're an adult and you break the terms of your ASBO

You can be fined an unlimited amount or sentenced to 5 years in prison, or both.

If you're a young person and you break the terms of your ASBO

You can be fined up to £250 (if you're aged 10 to 14) or up to £1,000 (if you're aged 15 to 17). The fine may have to be paid by your parents if you're under 16. You might also get a community sentence or, if you're over 12, a detention and training order (DTO) for up to 24 months.

If you don't agree with the ASBO

If you don't agree with the ASBO, you can get legal advice.