Two women jailed for "persistent anti-social behaviour" offences in Spalding
Two women – including one from Crowland – have been jailed following “persistent anti-social behaviour” in the South Holland area, Lincolnshire Police have said.
Helen Houghton, 55, of Cross Place, Crowland, has been imprisoned for eight weeks after appearing at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on 16 March.
A force spokesperson said: "She was identified twice as drinking in a public place. She also entered a retail premises in breach of a previously served Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). We offer individuals support with partner agencies to address and work on challenging circumstances, and when our continued support fails to prevent offending the courts recognise this by adopting the only possible option which is to imprison the offender.”
Sarah McCourt, 44, of no fixed address, was arrested on 18 March after being spotted by officers on foot patrol in Spalding.
"She was wanted for stealing £20 worth of toiletries from Poundstretcher on 7 March,” the spokesperson said. “McCourt appeared before Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on 19 March where she was sentenced to 10 weeks in prison."
Sergeant Callum Corder commented: “We will continue to present clear evidence to the courts for any breach of CBOs. These are the only powers that make street drinking a criminal offence, and while the process is time‑consuming, it is an effective way to stop behaviour that undermines the safety and character of our streets.
"We know from your feedback that street drinking has a real impact on your daily lives. That is why we pursue these orders - because the Public Space Protection Order is not a blanket ban on street drinking, and stronger measures are sometimes necessary to protect the community.”
The spokesperson added: “Our efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour extend across many areas, including shop theft. We will continue to listen to our communities, support those facing difficult circumstances, and take firm, proportionate action whenever behaviour threatens the safety and wellbeing of others.”