POLICE are investigating Southampton’s so-called “family from hell” after being inundated with complaints.

The Daily Echo can today reveal 18 incidents of antisocial behaviour have been reported in their street since the family moved in earlier this year.

Their neighbours say the family of ten have unleashed a wave of terror since moving into two council homes in the street in May.

They have accused them of smashing windows, throwing dog dirt at windows and subjecting them to verbal abuse and intimidation.

It is the fourth time in three years that the family has been rehoused in Southampton, costing thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ cash in the process.

Neighbours in all of the four Southampton communities in which they have lived have complained of vandalism, intimidation and antisocial behaviour.

But the Daily Echo is still unable to name the family or report where they are living, due to a court order.

Now Hampshire Constabulary has told the Daily Echo that 18 incidents of antisocial behaviour have been recorded since the family moved in.

These include car windows being broken, damage to property, and noise nuisance.

The incidents are still under investigation, and officers say it is not possible to say who was responsible at this stage.

Sgt Tim Adams, of Hampshire Constabulary, said: “We always take seriously any complaints of crime or antisocial behaviour and will take action to investigate and address it.

“There have been a number of complaints about incidents in and around the road in question since the late spring of this year.

“Police have already contacted local residents to advise them that we carry out inquiries into these matters and encouraging them to report incidents.”

Residents in the latest neighbourhood say they have had car windows smashed, property stolen and dog mess dumped on their doorsteps.

They also claim they have been intimidated and sworn at and had stones thrown at them.

Labour housing chief Warwick Payne said he was convening toplevel talks with senior housing officers to discuss the situation.

A council spokesman said: “The council has a legal obligation to provide housing to families that need it.

“Instances of antisocial or criminal behaviour should be reported to the police.

“We’re not aware of any action being taken in relation to the allegations made in this story.”