A RUN down Dudley property owned by a rogue landlord has been shut by police following complaints of anti-social behaviour and crime.
West Midlands Police has secured a closure order against the Wolverhampton Street premises belonging to millionaire Latif Rehman.
The Dudley neighbourhood team pursued the notice amid community concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime involving tenants.
It comes after Dudley Council also took action against 58-year-old Rehman, from Harborne, who converted four homes − including the address in Wolverhampton Street into cramped bedsits − without planning permission.
He pocketed cash paid out by the council for housing benefit for tenants - taking in around £150,000 a year just in rent.
Rehman ignored enforcement notices and was ordered to pay more than £340,000 in fines, court costs and under the Proceeds of Crime last month.
The force was already taking action following reports of nuisance behaviour at the property and was granted a three-month closure order at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court last Thursday (October 12).
Sergeant Adam Revell, from Dudley neighbourhood team, said: “This is the first time we have pursued an order against such a property in this area.
"We received a number of complaints about nuisance coming from the property − which was in a squalid condition - and built up a strong case of evidence to obtain the order.
“This will hopefully bring some peace to the community and reassure the public we will take steps to prevent anti-social behaviour."
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