Asbo 'hoodie' ban for teenagers

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Four men have been banned from wearing hooded tops and baseball caps in a Devon town as part of an Asbo.

The three 18-year-olds and a 19-year-old, are alleged to have been responsible for terrorising their neighbourhood in Torquay for months.

The Asbo also gives them a curfew, bans them from associating with certain people and entering a specified area.

It is thought to be the first time in the South West hooded tops have been specifically banned as part of an Asbo.

Adrian Leisk, Partnerships Inspector for Torbay said he was well aware that the restrictions in the interim anti-social behaviour order were "severe".

'Taking a stand'

"They have been offered many opportunities to engage with us to address and manage their behaviour but have decided not to," said Mr Leisk.

"We are aware the prohibitions are very severe but that reflects the nature of the offending and the impact it has had on quality of life for people in the local community."

He added that the council was very grateful to local people who had helped in the evidence gathering process.

"We thank them for their patience and bravery in taking a stand against this behaviour."

The four are due to appear at Totnes Magistrates' Court in December for a full Asbo hearing.