This in from the police, in their own words. Ed
Southampton Magistrates today granted an application for an interim Anti Social Behaviour Order in respect of Stephen Gough. The order is effective for all of England and Wales until May 10.
Roger Trencher, Force Solicitor for Hampshire Constabulary, made this statement after his application at Southampton Magistrates Court for an Anti Social Behaviour Order in respect of Stephen Gough was successful:
“Today, Hampshire Constabulary sought an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) because Stephen Gough has caused much offence nationwide, and he has used a considerable amount of police time in England, Wales and Scotland.”
Deterred by the criminal law
He went on to say, “This is because he insists on rambling naked. He refuses to be deterred by the criminal law. He believes the law is uncertain on the issue of public nudity.
“We applied, in consultation with Eastleigh Borough Council, for an ABSO to bring some clarity to the situation. We hoped the court would agree that, because of the public offence that has been caused and the police time used, it is in the public interest that Mr Gough be required to wear clothing sufficient to prevent the offence.
“We sought an order for him to wear sufficient clothing in public to at least cover his genitalia and buttocks.
“The Constabulary and many residents of Hampshire are pleased with the court’s decision to grant the Anti Social Behaviour Order. Any breach of the order could result in a prison sentence for Mr Gough.”
