Southend: Emergency Prohibition Order for High Street property

A property on Southend High Street has been shut down and its residents safeguarded after officers discovered squatters and signs of drug use when investigating reports of an assault.

One of the building’s residents contacted police alleging she had been attacked after confronting someone living there illegally.

When officers attended the scene, they found drug paraphernalia and non-residents inside. They immediately made Southend-on-Sea City Council aware.

The following day, our officers joined council officials, representatives from Essex Fire and Rescue and the managing agent at the property. It had suffered extensive damage and was deemed unsafe for habitation.

The property’s doors and windows were secured and the council issued an Emergency Prohibition Order, which prevents its use for residential purposes.

Two people were arrested for possession of drugs with the intent to supply and offensive weapons offences. One of the individuals was wanted on a recall to prison, where he has since returned.

The squatters were removed and the eight residents were safeguarded.

Crime in Southend is down by 6.7% in the past 12 months with 1,248 fewer offences reported and anti-social behaviour is down by 68% since 2019.

Inspector Jane Childs of Southend Community Policing Team said:

“The property was being used as a base for illegal activity by people who had no right to be there, so we worked quickly with our partners at the council to safeguard the vulnerable residents, remove the squatters and make arrests for drug offences.

“Drug use and drug dealing are inextricably linked to anti-social behaviour, theft and violence. Closing this address will make the High Street and surrounding areas a safer place for local residents and businesses.

“Combatting drug use and anti-social behaviour is a priority for our team. We’ve made more arrests for drug possession this year than we did in the previous 12 months and incidents of anti-social behaviour have fallen considerably in the past five years.

“If there you witness drug dealing or anti-social behaviour taking place, please report it and we will do something about it.”

Cllr Kevin Robinson, cabinet member responsible for regulatory services, added:

“The safety and well-being of our residents is of utmost importance. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of council officers, Essex Police and Essex Fire and Rescue, I’m relieved to see that the squatters have been removed and the residents safeguarded.

 “The Emergency Prohibition Order was a necessary step to ensure that the property is no longer used for residential purposes until it is deemed safe. If anyone encounters similar issues, I urge them to report it immediately.”

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