Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Police have managed to close down a rented property where drug dealing, child exploitation, and anti-social behavior were frequently occurring. The ASB, Crime and Policing Act 2014 granted the closure notice on Wednesday 17 April in Liverpool Magistrates Court. The council’s Private Sector Housing team was conducting a survey of the local community in January when the issues came to light.
At 61 Geraint Street, L8, drug dealing, loud parties, violence, and child exploitation were major concerns. Cannabis could be smelled from the street, and buyers were arriving and leaving day and night. Groups of young girls and men believed to be linked to county lines drug activity were visiting the property, and drug paraphernalia was often discarded throughout the area.
Merseyside Police acted and executed a warrant. A man was arrested, and safeguarding actions were taken for the protection of the young people. The Council and Merseyside Police have since been working to close the property. It was closed on Wednesday, and its closure will remain until late May. The relief and happiness of the residents can be felt, and no issues have occurred since the closure.
The owner of the property now aims to renovate it to become a family home. Louise Harford, interim Director of Housing, said, “This case is a really good example of the work our Private Sector Housing team is now doing in our communities, working alongside colleagues and partner organizations such as Merseyside Police, listening to residents’ concerns and then acting upon the information received.” Those who have encountered similar issues are encouraged to report concerns to the council’s website. Constable Sean Sheldon from Merseyside Police added, “This closure will break the cycle and make others aware that this address will no longer be used as a drugs den and a place for children to be exploited.”
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