'Relentless' Offender Banned From Bothering Sompting Neighbours

A man who persistently took advantage of vulnerable residents in Sompting has been banned from knocking on doors and entering his neighbours' flats.

According to District Judge Claire Evans, Gary Hocking, of Millfield, was a 'relentless' offender, well known in the area for burglary, drug use and anti-social behviour.

Judge Evans imposed a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order against Hocking at a hearing on December 8.

It bans the 33-year-old from entering any flats in Millfield or Busticle Lane, barring his own flat and one other.

The order lasts for three years. Any breach of the order without reasonable excuse can be punished with a fine or up to five years in prison.

Hocking had previously gained access to his neighbours' properties and stolen their belongings to sell on so he could fund his drug habit.

He previously ignored a Community Protection Warning imposed on him.

Adur and Worthing Councils said he was then issued with a Community Protection Notice, which he breached seven times within a few months.

Through co-operation with Adur & Worthing Councils and Adur Homes, Sussex Police presented the required evidence at court to prove a Criminal Behaviour Order was necessary to prevent further criminal behaviour from Hocking.

Judge Evans wrote:

“His offending is relentless, intolerable and impacting on many persons living in the same area as him. Criminal behaviour will continue unless this order is imposed.”

Cllr Kevin Boram, Adur District Council’s Executive Member for Health & Wellbeing, said:

“Many thanks to the hard work of our antisocial behaviour team, Adur Homes and Sussex Police for obtaining this order.

“This result shows we are serious about protecting community safety and ensuring Adur residents feel secure in their homes. This kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.”