In the context of crime, CB stands for Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). It is a court order designed to tackle individuals who engage in persistent anti-social behaviour and are also involved in criminal activity.
Understanding Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs)
A Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) is an important tool used by courts to address the underlying causes of an offender's criminal and anti-social conduct, aiming to prevent future offending and protect the public.
Purpose and Application
CBOs are issued upon conviction for any criminal offence in either the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court. Their primary purpose is twofold:
- To address anti-social behaviour: CBOs target individuals whose persistent anti-social actions are often linked to their criminal activities.
- To prevent re-offending: By imposing specific conditions, CBOs aim to modify an offender's behaviour and reduce the likelihood of them committing further crimes or engaging in anti-social conduct.
Key Features of a CBO
CBOs are flexible and can be tailored to the specific circumstances of the offender and the nature of their offending. They typically include a combination of:
- Prohibitions: These are restrictions on what the offender must not do. Examples might include:
- Not entering a specified geographical area.
- Not associating with particular individuals.
- Not engaging in certain types of anti-social activities (e.g., public drunkenness, aggressive begging).
- Positive Requirements: These are actions the offender must take, designed to address the root causes of their behaviour and promote rehabilitation. Examples include:
- Attending substance misuse treatment programs.
- Engaging with mental health services.
- Participating in education, training, or employment programs.
The conditions imposed must be necessary, proportionate, and achievable for the offender.
Duration of a CBO
The duration of a CBO varies depending on the age of the offender:
- Adults (18 and over): CBOs must be imposed for a minimum of two years and can be for an indefinite period.
- Juveniles (under 18): CBOs can be imposed for a period of one to three years.
Breach of a CBO
Breaching the conditions of a Criminal Behaviour Order is a serious matter and constitutes a separate criminal offence. If an individual fails to comply with any of the requirements of their CBO, they can face:
- Further court proceedings.
- A fine.
- Imprisonment (up to a maximum of five years for adults).
In summary, a CBO is a crucial legal instrument used in the criminal justice system to manage and deter individuals who pose a risk of persistent anti-social and criminal behaviour, combining restrictive measures with rehabilitative support.
