The Implications of CBOs and their use in Greater Manchester.

At Morton’s Solicitors, we recognise that Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) are being increasingly used by police forces across the UK – including right here in Greater Manchester. As experienced criminal defence solicitors, we are here to advise clients facing the serious implications that a CBO can bring.

What is a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO)?

A CBO is a court order issued against individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offence. The aim is to tackle ongoing anti-social behaviour and criminality by imposing restrictions on the individual’s activities or movements.

Although a CBO is a civil order, breaching it is a criminal offence that can lead to arrest, fines, community service or imprisonment.

Greater Manchester Police and the Use of CBOs

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have made it clear they are actively using CBOs as a tool to curb persistent offending. According to a recent GMP article, officers across every district are using CBOs to target repeat offenders involved in shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and other types of local criminality.

Since April 2023, hundreds of CBOs have been issued, with over 560 still active. GMP’s town centre teams have been particularly proactive, using CBOs to ban problematic individuals from shopping centres, retail parks, and town centres.

For instance, Oldham’s central policing team recently issued 37 CBOs to deter shoplifters and anti-social offenders from entering the town centre.

Chief Superintendent John-Paul Ruffle of GMP’s Force Prevention Branch commented that CBOs are a “valuable tool to fight crime,” removing offenders from areas where they cause harm.

However, from a defence perspective, it is important to ensure these orders are applied fairly and proportionately, given the serious consequences of a breach.

How Solicitors Approach CBOs

When defending clients facing CBO applications, we examine several key factors, including:

• Whether the evidence justifies imposing a CBO
• Whether the proposed restrictions are necessary, proportionate and not overly punitive
• Whether there are grounds to challenge either the underlying conviction or the CBO itself

Legal advice is crucial, as CBOs can severely affect daily life by restricting access to workplaces, family homes, shops and public places. Some orders last for months, while others can be indefinite.

The Implications of a CBO

Being made subject to a CBO can be life-changing. The terms can include prohibitions on entering specific areas, contacting certain people, or participating in everyday activities. Given GMP’s clear strategy to ramp up the use of CBOs, it is more important than ever to seek expert legal advice at the earliest stage.

Breaching a CBO is a criminal offence and could result in further prosecution, criminal records and harsher penalties. Early intervention by an experienced solicitor can significantly influence the outcome.

How We Can Help

At Morton’s Solicitors, we have a wealth of experience defending clients against Criminal Behaviour Orders. Whether you are facing an application for a CBO or have been accused of breaching an existing order, we can provide expert advice and representation to protect your rights and your future.

For more information about how we can assist with CBOs, visit our dedicated Criminal Behaviour Orders page. You can also call us directly on 0161 230 4816 or email us via our contact page for fast, confidential advice.