Threats left tenant scared to go home

Richard Layne, aged 37, of Fawcett Street, Netherthorpe, was given a 12 month injunction by Judge Robert Moore at Sheffield County Court.

The court heard Layne had threatened and abused a nearby resident to such an extent that they did not want to return home. Layne was ordered not to contact or communicate with the neighbour, cause them any nuisance or annoyance, or approach their property.

He accepted the order and apologised for the distress caused.

Meanwhile, in a separate case, John Spencer, 67, of Cherry Tree Common, Nether Edge, was also handed a 12 month injunction after he verbally abused other residents, and contractors working on behalf of the council.

The court heard Spencer, who was not present in court or represented, had also physically assaulted a warden working on his block.

The order, also imposed by Judge Moor, prevents Spencer causing nuisance and annoyance to residents, visitors, employees and agents working on behalf of the council, as well as the warden he attacked.

If either tenant breaches their injunction the council can apply to the court to enforce it and, if a breach is proved in court the penalty can be a fine, a prison sentence, or both.

Coun Mazher Iqbal, cabinet adviser for safety, said: "These two recent injunctions are a warning that we will not tolerate tenants who abuse and distress other residents, their visitors, and people working at our properties. We will continue to take action against people who behave in this way."