Stockton man who breached PSPO rules is fined

A Stockton man who ignored warnings to stop drinking alcohol in Stockton town centre has been fined.

Ross Drury, 30, of Kentport Court, was caught in breach of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

Teesside Magistrates' Court heard how Drury was first given a warning about drinking alcohol in Stockton town centre in April 2023 - and was also abusive and threatening towards a Civic Enforcement officer.

And after again being found to be consuming alcohol in the town centre in May 2023 and refusing to stop, Drury was then given a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN), which was not paid.

Drury was handed a £220 fine, £88 victim surcharge and ordered that he pay £150 costs. This must paid within 28 days, and a collection order was made.

A PSPO was introduced in Stockton town centre and Norton town centre on April 3, 2023.

Councillor Norma Stephenson, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Access, Communities and Community Safety, said: "The PSPO in Stockton town centre and Norton town centre has really helped improve the levels of anti-social behaviour - and this sentencing is a welcome result.

"The message is clear that we will simply not tolerate unacceptable behaviour like this and you will face the consequences if you do not follow the rules.

"The town centre is there for everyone to enjoy and we will continue to take action against the small minority of people who flout the PSPO rules, which helps tackle aggressive begging and other forms of anti-social behaviour like drinking alcohol in the street. It's great to hear from residents that their experience of the town centres is much better thanks to the PSPO.

"And of course, you can report any concerns regarding anti-social behaviour to our Civic Enforcement Service on 01642 528439 or by emailing civic.enforcement@stockton.gov.uk."

You can find out more on the PSPO by visiting the dedicated web page.

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