Bracknell

Police in Bracknell have closed another crack house using the Anti-Social Behaviour Act of 2003.

An order to close down the property at 46 Woodmere, Harmans Water, Bracknell for three months was granted at Bracknell Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning (28/8) where Acting Insp Charlie Winter, neighbourhood inspector for Bracknell North, gave evidence.

The Bracknell property was later boarded up and a closure notice put on display, together with a poster explaining that it has been closed as part of the Operation Falcon anti-drugs initiative. With the exception of staff working for the landlord, anyone caught inside, or attempting to get in, will be arrested. Police can return to court and get an extension of the closure order for a further three months if necessary.

A/Insp Winter said: “There has been a lot of anti-social behaviour and drug-related activity associated with this house in recent months. Neighbours have been subjected to noise at all hours of the day, as well as intimidation by visitors to the property.

“We have worked closely with the landlord, Bracknell Forest Borough Council, to gather evidence and prepare a case for the closure order.”

The problems led to police executing a search warrant at the Bracknell address on 26 July, when suspected Class A drugs were seized and two people were arrested. One of these people is currently on bail; the second person, 27-year-old Jason Sanders Fox, was charged with possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply and remanded to court.

Acting Ch Insp Bowden, commander of Bracknell Forest local police area, added: “This is the fifth crack house we have closed in Bracknell.

“I want to get the message across that anyone who is involved in dealing drugs, or who allows their property to be used by drug dealers, should think very carefully as it could cost you your home.

“We will continue to use all the powers given to us by current legislation to improve the quality of life for the community in Bracknell.

“The public can help us by providing information about people and premises involved in crime. Call us on 0845 8 505 505, or if you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

Stuart Mudie, Assistant Director of Sustainable Communities at Bracknell Forest Borough Council, said: "We will not tolerate any drug dealing in any of our properties.

"We have worked with the police to ensure that this house, which has caused neighbours great disturbance in the recent past, will not continue to cause problems.

"We want Bracknell Forest to remain a safe and drug-free place to live. Any form of illegal or anti-social behaviour is not welcome in the borough and we will work with the police to make sure it's stamped out."

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell