Beverley couple ordered to pay £3300 due to unreasonable noise from their barking dogs breaching a community protection notice

A couple from Molescroft, Beverley, have been found guilty on six counts of breaching a Community Protection Notice on persistent and unreasonable noise from their barking dogs.

Mark Steeksma and Emma Bennett did not turn up for court for proceedings at Beverley Magistrate Court on Wednesday 19 August. They were found guilty in their absence, with the court imposing a fine of £660, ordered to pay £725 in costs and a £264 victim surcharge. They each must pay £1649 in total.  

The council investigated the issue after receiving complaints from nearby residents. Community Protection Notices were served in July 2025 under section 43 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Despite the issuing of warning letters and Fixed Penalty Notices in an attempt to resolve the problem, complaints continued. Following several monitoring visits, sufficient evidence was gathered to support a prosecution.

Councillor Lyn Healing, East Riding of Yorkshire Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Public Protection, said: “We are committed to maintaining our region as a good place to live, and taking robust action against antisocial behaviour.

“The council will use all available options in its attempts to resolve issues and improve lives for residents.”

Residents can report antisocial behaviour by emailing safe.communities@eastriding.gov.uk or by calling 01482 396380. More information about the council’s activities on tackling antisocial behaviour can be found at https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/anti-social-behaviour/

In an emergency, or to report a breach of a criminal behaviour order, call the police on 999.

Author: tracey