Criminal Behaviour Orders - Annex E
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance outlines the procedures for utilizing hearsay evidence in applications for criminal behaviour orders. It details the conditions under which such evidence can be presented, listing various types of witnesses and the nature of their statements. The guidance is intended to assist prosecutors in making the best use of available evidence in cases of anti-social behaviour.
Key points
- The guidance covers the use of hearsay evidence in criminal behaviour order applications.
- Witness statements may be accepted without the original contributors being present.
- Witnesses may be protected from reprisals by maintaining their anonymity.
- The guidance cites relevant case law to support the use of hearsay evidence.
- Procuring a hearing of hearsay evidence is justified by practicality in certain circumstances.
Public-interest factors
- Protection of community safety
- Mitigating anti-social behaviour
- Maximizing the use of available evidence
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.