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A judge ordered a Mossley man to wear headphones unless he wanted another spell in prison.
Benjy Hughes played music at such loud volumes that neighbours could hear every word. And his love of Gangsta Rap meant the offensive lyrics boomed out during afternoons and evenings.
New Charter successfully obtained an ex parte injunction on 15th September to restrict Hughes from playing his music at excessive volume and causing nuisance in the neighbourhood. But almost 30 instances of Hughes ignoring the injunction were logged by neighbours and New Charter staff.
Hughes failed to attend the hearing in early October to defend his actions and New Charter satisfied the judge that the injunction should be confirmed. Because of further breaches, Hughes was arrested on 13th October and a judge remanded him to prison for a week to face trial.
Last Tuesday (20th October), Hughes admitted all breaches of the injunction. He told District Judge Craig Osborne he had failed to appreciate the severity of the matter and apologised to the court, neighbours and New Charter.
DJ Osborne gave Hughes a three-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. And in what is believed to be a unique move, he forbade the playing of any music at the property other than through headphones.
Managing Director of New Charter Homes Tony Powell said: “Our action is usually aimed at the tenant, as they are responsible for the actions of their family and visitors. In this case, we believed the evidence clearly pointed to Hughes as the offender, so we sought an injunction against him.
“We are pleased the judge has sided with neighbours who
just want peace and quiet. Although it’s common advice to use
headphones, we think the judge’s insistence on them is a
first. Hughes must comply with the terms of the injunction or face
another spell in prison.”
www.newcharter.co.uk
