BEXLEY Council has refused to reveal details of an Asbo handed out to a boy of 13.

The order was made against the youngster last month at Bexley Magistrates' Court after he was convicted of burglary.

Only when questioned by News Shopper would the council reveal even the area of the borough affected by the boy's behaviour.

But, despite Home Office advice to the contrary, it has refused to reveal:

  • the boy's name;
  • his photograph;
  • details of the offence for which he was convicted;
  • details of the allegations;
  • the terms of the order.

The council will only say it had worked with the boy in 2002 after complaints about his anti-social behaviour in Belvedere, made by a housing association.

A statement says the council worked with him and other agencies to improve his behaviour.

However, he was referred back to the council in January last year after he refused to co-operate any longer.

It said following further allegations of intimidation, assault, burglary and criminal damage in the Erith area last year, it had decided to apply for an order.

It will only reveal the two-year order bans the youth from certain parts of the Erith area.

Despite Home Office guidance on how to deal with publicity about Asbos, the council has not even given details of the order to residents living in the affected area.

The Home Office recommends residents should be told the details, via the local press, or through a leaflet drop or newsletter in the area.

This should include exactly the information News Shopper requested.

It says the fact the subject of the order is aged under 18 should not be a reason to withhold details about the Asbo.

The Home Office backs publicity for Asbos because it says the public should be encouraged to help police the order.

Bexley Council says it decides its attitude to publicity on a case-by-case basis "which involves careful consideration of the effect publicity will have on all persons affected by it".

The council says it has a checklist of factors it takes into account, which include:

  • the individual's age, vulnerability, health and ability to change;
  • the safety of the individual's family balanced against the safety of others affected by the anti-social behaviour;
  • the impact of the individual's behaviour on the community;
  • the extent of the geographical area of the anti-social behaviour.

A spokesman told News Shopper: "All partner agencies involved and witnesses have been notified with full details."

News Shopper has also been unable to obtain a copy of the order from Bexley magistrates.