Closure Order on problem property linked to antisocial behaviour and criminality in Washington
Problem property closed by police
Police’s officers have served a closure order on an anti-social behaviour (ASB) hot-spot in Washington after occupants of the property failed to curb their unsociable behaviour.
Northumbria Police were notified last summer (2025) of reports of ASB and drug use linked to a property on Council Terrace in the Sulgrave area of Washington.
In August (2025), officers, along with staff from Sunderland Council’s Safer Concord and Sulgrave Community Safety Team, and Gentoo, took action on the occupant of the address, serving them with a Community Protection Notice (CPN).
However, this warning was “ignored” and the property “once again became a hot spot for ASB and criminality across the Christmas and New Year period”.
Four people were arrested between December and February at the address in connection with theft and burglary offences in the local area.
In January (2026), the occupant of the property was convicted of breaching their Community Protection Notice and received a 12-month conditional discharge.
However, ASB and criminality linked to the address remained a problem for the local community and a closure order was served on the problem property on March 19.
The closure order prevents anyone from entering the property for three months except two named people – anyone who accesses the property unlawfully will be prosecuted.
Northumbria Police’s Sergeant Patrick Scott of Washington Safer Concord & Sulgrave multi-agency hub said: “Firstly I’d like to thank the local community for working with us and for their patience while we gathered the evidence to take action on this problem property.
“We will continue to work with our colleagues at the council to do all we can to put a stop to nuisance neighbours who find it acceptable to flout the law and cause unrest in your local area.
“You should not have to put up with this type of criminality on your doorstep.
“Our neighbourhood officers see and hear how much of an impact crime like this can have in their local communities.
“That’s why we’re out on the streets day in, day out, talking to you and gathering information on what really affects you the most.
“We will listen and we will take action.”
Sunderland City Council's Community Safety Manager Michelle Coates added: “We want all Sunderland residents to feel safe and secure in their homes and communities, and we treat persistent ASB with the utmost seriousness.
“This closure order demonstrates the decisive action that can be achieved through effective partnership in response to concerns raised by residents.
“Our Safer Concord and Sulgrave Community Safety Hub plays a central role in identifying, coordinating and responding to the issues that matter most to local communities.
“I would like to thank residents for reporting ASB in their area, as this information is vital in enabling us to take appropriate action.
“I would also encourage anyone experiencing similar issues to continue to come forward and report them so that we can respond effectively.”
Members of the public who have information about suspected criminality can contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, or by using the ‘report’ form on their website.