A MAN from Torquay police deem to be a potential danger to women has been handed a Sexual Risk Order (SRO).

Wayne Craig Abbots, 50, of no fixed abode, has been handed strict conditions to abide by for the next three years.

An SRO is a civil order that can be sought by police against someone who has not been convicted or cautioned of any offences, but is thought to pose a risk of harm.

The order states that Abbots must not intentionally loiter around, approach or follow any lone female or group of females other than when it is unavoidable in the course of lawful daily life.

He must not remain in contact with any female, directly or indirectly, who has made it clear that such contact or communication is unwanted, nor make any sexualised remarks or gestures in a public place which is likely to cause alarm or distress.

Breach of the conditions of an SRO is a criminal offence, punishable by up to five years in prison.

Inspector Rob Harvey said: ‘An SRO imposes restrictions on an individual with the intention of managing that risk of harm.

‘This order is necessary to prevent any potential harm to women.

‘We are committed to protecting women from exploitation and harm and hope this SRO will assist in doing just that.

‘This behaviour will not be tolerated in our community and we are doing that we can to protect the women and girls in Torquay’.