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Problem Cradley tenant fined for dog noise nuisance

A problem tenant in Cradley who allowed her dogs to cause a noise nuisance to neighbours has landed court costs of more than £2,500.

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Rachel Cook was fined at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court earlier this month

Rachel Cook was sentenced at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court last week following a case brought by Dudley Council's anti-social behaviour team.

Cook, of Beecher Road East, Cradley, who is believed to have had multiple dogs in her two-bedroom council property at any one time, pleaded guilty to the offence of failing to comply with a noise abatement notice, when she appeared at the court on April 11.

The 43-year-old was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay costs £1,364.45, as well as a victim surcharge of £170.

In mitigation, Cook's solicitor said there had not been any problems since December and there were now just three dogs at the property.

Alan Lunt, deputy chief executive and strategic director for place at Dudley Council, said: "Our anti-social behaviour team works closely with residents to address the behaviour of the minority of tenants and residents who to go beyond acceptable noise levels and affect the daily lives of people who live nearby.

"We took this action after Miss Cook flouted the terms of her noise abatement notice and failed to show due regard for her neighbours.

"The outcome of the case sends a clear message that we expect people to behave in a reasonable and considerate way.”

Anyone who wishes to report anti-social behaviour or noise disturbance, can call the team via Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345. Any residents who encounter threatening or criminal behaviour can call the police on 101 or 999 if it is an emergency.

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