A HEREFORD man, banned from drinking in public for his bad behaviour, was caught out by CCTV and sentenced last week to 12 weeks in prison.

Michael Croke, 48, was given a CRASBO following a drunk and disorderly charge two months ago, which banned him from entering part of the city centre and from having an open vessel of alcohol.

However Croke fell foul of the order when cameras spotted him ¬ ¬– on three separate occasions – breaching his conditions.

Appearing on Tuesday at Hereford Magistrate’s Court he was told that he would have to serve at least six weeks of his sentence behind bars.

Jim Mooney, Herefordshire Police Licensing and Harm Reduction Coordinator, said: “Croke was made very clear that any breaches of his CRASBO would result in his arrest, and that if convicted he would possibly receive a prison sentence.

“Herefordshire CCTV record any breaches of court orders and provide this evidence if required.

“They are an important county-wide facility that is that is used effectively to protect the public from the risk of harm.”

Croke, of St Peter’s Close, Moreton-on-Lugg, had already amassed 33 convictions since 1997.

He was given a two-year CRASBO – Criminal Anti Social Behaviour Order – but could not make it two months without breaching his conditions, which banned him from certain problem areas identified by police.

Mr Mooney added that this sentence should show others the very real consequences of anti-social behaviour.

He said: “Croke being given this sentence shows the seriousness of firstly receiving a CRASBO, and secondly the consequences of breaching it.

“This sends a clear message to those who continue to act in an anti social manner that you will be dealt with by the police and the courts if you fail to change your ways and behave.”

Anyone who witnesses anybody breaching an ASBO or CRASBO can contact the Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers 0800 555111.