A prolific beggar has received a Criminal Behaviour Order preventing him from begging in Andover town centre.
Anthony Williams, 43, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to begging under the 1824 Vagrancy Act at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on October 11. The offences occurred in Andover town centre between September 8 and September 24, 2016.
Williams was given a Criminal Behaviour Order for two years from October 11, 2016. This requires him not to approach any person in a public place in Andover town centre and ask for money.
This follows an initiative by the Andover Safer Neighbourhood team to advise beggars about their conduct and offer support in conjunction with Test Valley Borough Council.