Safer Neighbourhoods Team secures possession following serious criminal case

Working closely with West Midlands Police, our teams supported the case and secured possession of a flat at Mercia House in Coventry after a possession order was granted by the court.

The customer was convicted of conspiracy to murder in May and was sentenced earlier this month to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 16 years and eight months. 

After the customer was remanded in custody ahead of the criminal trial, we began the process of recovering possession of the flat. Now that the property has been returned to us, our Empty Homes Team will carry out the necessary work to prepare it for reletting, providing another comfortable home for customers.

This case highlights the importance of partnership working when serious crime and anti-social behaviour affect our communities. By working closely with the police and other agencies, we can take action to help keep neighbourhoods safe for our customers.

Our Head of Tenancy and Neighbourhoods, Liz Carroll, said: "We've worked closely with our partners to secure this possession order and will continue working together to help keep our communities safe.

"Eviction is always a last resort and only takes place after careful consideration. Our priority is to work with customers to resolve issues wherever possible, but there are occasions when enforcement action is necessary to protect neighbouring customers and the wider community.

"This was a very serious case and securing possession means the property can now be prepared for reletting, helping provide a home for someone who needs it. We hope the action taken will help local customers feel safer and more secure in their homes."

Anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour can report it to us by calling 0300 790 6555. More information is also available on our website.