Youth told: Stay out of Bexhill!

Hastings magistrates imposed an Anti-Social Behaviour Order against 19-year-old Nelson Smith (pictured below).

The court was told that Smith and associates terrorised other young people. Their favourite weapon was a device similar to a baseball bat.

The order against Smith, of Darvel Down, Netherfield, prohibits him from:

*Entering Bexhill or Sidley

*Associating with a named other person

*Being in any vehicle with that person, whether as a driver or passenger

*Otherwise acting in an anti-social manner - that is a manner likely that causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to anyone in England or Wales

The Anti-Social Behaviour Coordinator for Rother, Robert Perry, said: "Smith led a group of other young men who ultimately affected the lives of many in Bexhill and Sidley, in particular young people who were threatened, chased and assaulted throughout this area."

He said Smith's activities covered the whole of Bexhill, Sidley and Little Common. .

"Literally, it was a community of young people in fear - quite apart from adults who encountered him. Some young people confined themselves to their homes as a result, only going out when accompanied by an adult or in a car.

"It has taken a lengthy period to convince victims to come forward. That major effort throughout the year has been supported by a variety of agencies, magistrates originally granted an interim ASBO and have now made a full ASBO.

"The community who lived in fear will be much relieved. The restrictions this Order imposes were richly deserved.

"My sympathies lie with the victims."

Inspector Dick Coates said the case had taken a long time to prepare but because of its severity had been given priority.