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Injunction for driveway dweller (NCC release)

A man who lived on his ex-partner's driveway in a transit van has been given an injunction banning him from the premises.

Brian Hinksman, 62, formally of Sherwood, moved into the van after his relationship with the female tenant of the property broke down. The tenant, who lives in the Nottingham City Homes property with her five children, had been subjected to harassment and intimidation by her ex-partner and despite her requests, Hinksman refused to leave.

Hinksman also managed to steal electricity from the property by manufacturing an outside plug taken from the property's mains supply. He previously denied having a key to the property but during investigations was discovered to have a copy.

On 29th July 2011 at Nottingham County Court, a one-year Anti Social Behaviour Injunction was obtained against Hinksman, forbidding him from harassing the victim or her children and returning to the address. Mr Hinksman, who attended court, was ordered to remove his van within 28 days. He was given one day, pre determined by solicitors to be escorted to the premises to remove the vehicle. If not, it will be removed and destroyed.

Speaking to Community Protection, the victim said:

It's just made a massive difference to our lives. Little things like having my living room window open, or my children being able to enjoy the garden without fear of him shouting abuse at them. It was embarrassing for me and the children.

The officers have been amazing, couldn't ask for better. I'd advise any person in the same situation to ring the ASB helpline or approach their local officer – it's made such a difference to my life. Thank you.

Cllr Alex Norris, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Area Working and Cleansing commented:

This is a very unusual case, but one that needed immediate action. The tenant and her children have been extremely brave after being subjected to threats and abuse.

Brian Hinksman has affected this family in every way possible by forcing himself into their lives and not respecting their wishes for him to leave. He was given every opportunity to resolve the situation without court action being sought, but refused any help from supporting agencies.

The PCSO and ASB officer spent a vast amount of time working on the case and supporting the family. Their commitment to resolving the case was crucial to removing Brian Hinksman from Joyce Avenue. We were able to obtain an Injunction to remove the offender within weeks of the tenant reporting the problems, due to excellent partnership working between Nottingham Police, Nottingham City Homes and Community Protection.

Gill Moy, Director of Housing at Nottingham City Homes, said:

This is an unusual case, but one that was important to resolve as soon as possible. Clearly Mr Hinksman has caused a great deal of distress to his former partner and her children, and as soon as we were made aware of the problem in July we took immediate action.

Nobody should have to live like that and face harassment on a daily basis. Ms Stevenson and her children can now get back to normal, without the constant threats and abuse they have been facing. This is just another example of how working together the city's partners are improving quality of life for our tenants.

Nottingham citizens can report problems 24hrs a day by ring the ASB helpline: 0115 915 2020.

(Tuesday 16th August 2011 09:00:00 GMT)

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