Colchester has more "live" anti-social behaviour orders (Asbos) than anywhere else in Essex.

The police division tops the county's league of Asbos, heading into the new year with 29.

This is in the wake of calls to review the powers which are being "abused" in some areas of the country, a report claims.

Probation officers' union Napo claims the issuing of an Asbo almost comes down to a "geographical lottery" and varies widely between parts of the country.

But Chief Insp Iain Logan, of Colchester police, hailed the figures as a sign officers and the Crown Prosecution Service were doing a good job.

He said: "I'm really satisfied that we have a good understanding of the legislation and are able to intelligently apply it and articulate gathered evidence in court."

Published Wednesday, December 29, 2004

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