(Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)
A man with previous fraud convictions has been jailed after approaching members of the public for money in Durham City, with students new to the area among those targeted.
James Carr, 24, of Hilda Street, Durham, was handed a 16-week prison sentence after repeatedly breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) designed to stop him approaching people to request money or unsolicited work.
Police had received a string of reports about a man going door-to-door and approaching people in the city, particularly students who had recently arrived in Durham.
Officers quickly identified the individual as Carr, who was already subject to a court order following previous offending.
James Carr (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)
The order specifically banned him from approaching members of the public with the intention of seeking unsolicited work or money.
However, Carr breached the restrictions on several occasions between October 10 and October 14.
He appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court, where he pleaded guilty to all charges relating to the breaches.
Magistrates sentenced him to 16 weeks behind bars, while his original Criminal Behaviour Order will remain in force until February 2031.
The case comes as Durham Police continue a crackdown on anti-social behaviour across the city centre, working alongside Durham County Council's neighbourhood wardens.
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Durham City is covered by a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which prohibits certain activities including begging, public urination and defecation, using intoxicating substances and possessing open alcohol in public places.
Since July, officers have made 21 arrests for PSPO-related offences and issued nine Fixed Penalty Notices as part of efforts to tackle behaviour affecting residents, businesses and visitors.
Police say they remain committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour across Durham City, using enforcement powers and working closely with businesses, council wardens and Shopwatch members.