Northumbria Police are to step up their patrols in anticipation of an increase in anti-social behaviour amongst youths over the Easter break.
Officers urge parents to make sure they know where their children are during the holidays, while shop owners have been reminded that it’s illegal to sell alcohol to children.
Chief Superintendent Janice Hutton, Northumbria Police’s lead for anti-social behaviour, said the force will be working with all six local authorities, youth offending teams, housing associations and NEXUS to keep any disruption to a minimum. She said:
“During the school holidays we have historically recorded an increase in youth disorder and anti-social behaviour.
“With the nights now getting lighter we do expect large groups of young people together in public places and that can often lead to complaints from the local community. It goes without saying that the majority of young people are an absolute credit to themselves and their community and a minority continue to give them a bad name.
“Hanging out with your friends is not a crime but many youngsters can find themselves getting drawn into anti-social behaviour, whether that is street drinking or intimidating residents. In the past we have seen reports of criminal damage and even assaults – that type of behaviour simply won’t be tolerated and offenders will face action.
“We are asking parents to work with us over the next two weeks and make sure you know where your children are going to be in the evening. We will also be visiting local businesses to warn them about the consequences of selling alcohol to young people and Nexus will be using legislation to ban problem individuals from the Metro system.
“If you see our officers on patrol then we would encourage you to approach them and raise any concerns you may have about crime in your neighbourhood.”
You can report anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or online here.