District Council secures injunction to protect local residents from persistent antisocial behaviour

On Monday 9 March, the District Council obtained a two-year injunction order, with powers of arrest attached, against Naomi Pugh, of no fixed abode. Pugh did not attend the court hearing.

Over the past 18 months, Pugh has been linked to repeated nuisance behaviour, drug use, and alleged exploitation of vulnerable residents. Her actions are believed to have contributed to the “cuckooing” of several properties in Newark, causing significant concern among neighbours and community members. “Cuckooing” refers to criminals taking over the home of a vulnerable person to use it for illegal activities.

A number of Closure Orders have previously been granted at properties associated with Pugh’s behaviour.

As part of the injunction, Pugh is now prohibited from entering the town of Newark, effectively excluding her from the area. She is also banned from engaging in any behaviour that causes, or is likely to cause, nuisance, alarm, or distress to others. The attached power of arrest enables police to act swiftly should she breach any of these conditions.

Councillor Paul Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Residents across Newark deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities. The behaviour linked to this individual has caused long-term anxiety, disruption and intimidation. Securing this injunction, along with the exclusion from Newark, is an important step in preventing further harm and ensuring our communities are protected.

“We remain committed to working closely with Nottinghamshire Police and other partners to take decisive and proportionate action against those whose behaviour threatens the safety or wellbeing of others. This injunction demonstrates that persistent antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated in our district.”

Inspector Charlotte Ellam, District Commander for Newark and Sherwood, said: “Tackling antisocial behaviour has long been one of our primary focuses as a neighbourhood policing team, because of the distress we know this can cause to residents.

“This individual was responsible for subjecting the local community to these ASB issues for a considerable amount of time, so it’s only right that action has now been taken.

“We’re therefore really pleased to have been able to work with our partners at the council to secure this injunction, banning her from the Newark area.”

Anyone who wishes to report anti-social behaviour can speak to our team, in confidence, about any issues or concerns they may have. To register an anti-social behaviour complaint, contact the District Council or use the online anti-social behaviour reporting form.

If a crime is in progress or life is in danger, dial 999. To report non-urgent antisocial behaviour contact the police on 101.