The Antisocial Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014 has been a long time coming.

The Argus reported (January 26) that some adults live in fear of antisocial children.

While magistrates have to find beyond reasonable doubt to issue a criminal behaviour order, the new legislation provides the authorities with more powers.

The new dispersal order may be issued to anyone over the age of ten. This power enables the police to deal swiftly with antisocial behaviour.

Persons can be excluded from a particular area for up to 48 hours.

There is also the new CPN – community protection notice – which carries a fine of up to £100.

S Zapello

Portslade