Police have defended their decision to circulate a poster showing four teenage brothers served with antisocial behaviour orders (Asbos).

Brothers David, Luke, Jack and Garry Crossley were handed the Asbos after terrorising neighbours in Newhaven.

But Sussex Police have come in for criticism for widely publicising the orders, which mean the Crossleys face jail terms of up to five years for further antisocial behaviour.

University of Brighton crime expert Dr Peter Squires told The Argus: "I am rather appalled by the Asbo. It seems to overrule the rights of young people to privacy. Young people who are the subject of orders can become victimised by the community."

Dr Squires spoke out after the force released pictures of the teenagers, which were printed in The Argus, and distributed posters advertising their Asbos around Newhaven.

Police also sent the posters to victims of the brothers' crimes, which included arson attacks, criminal damage, making malicious phone calls and verbal abuse.

Ch Insp Bob Gough said: "For nearly two years local residents endured a catalogue of criminal behaviour, which brought misery and intimidation. In managing to secure this order, we have now been able to force these youths to behave themselves or risk being arrested.

"I felt it was right for the community to know their suffering had been addressed and they could again enjoy life without the constant risk of attack against their property.

"I hope this order acts as a deterrent to anyone else who sees themselves as being above the law."

Police said the circulation of the poster, and its use in the Press and on television, fell within Home Office guidelines on publicity in respect of Asbos.

By informing neighbours the orders are in force, officers hope any breach is more likely to be witnessed and reported, and that others may deterred from committing similar offences.

The posters have been displayed prominently in public buildings before the brothers' orders expire on April 28.

The 13 to 18-year-old Crossleys were handed interim Asbos banning them from all conduct that causes harassment, including ball games, in six Newhaven roads.

Insp Herbie Kinvig, based at Newhaven, said: "I hope these youths abide by the conditions of the order. If they do not, then we want to be told straight away. Where there is any evidence of failing to keep to the order, we will arrest the person concerned and seek to put them back in front of the magistrates. Our hope is the residents in that area will now be able to enjoy a better quality of life."