A SPATE of ‘antisocial behaviour and criminality’ in Rugby town centre has ‘forced’ police to ‘take more robust action’ against a group of youths.
Last week, officers arrested three young people and searched their homes for evidence of crime – and said there would be ‘more to follow’.
A Rugby Police spokesperson said a group of young people were linked to a spate of theft, assaults, public order offences and criminal damage in the town centre – with victims including young people, businesses, residents and visitors.
They added evidence of further crimes had been uncovered, meaning the offenders’ parents are under investigation.
Ch Insp Angus Eagles, Eastern Area Commander for Warwickshire Police, said: “This behaviour will not be tolerated. We’re committed to safeguarding people and businesses, disrupting and detecting crime and resolving the situation as quickly and effectively as possible.”
The police spokesperson added: “In response to the reports we have received, we have deployed additional resources in the town centre, with officers providing a more visible presence, engaging directly with the young people, and working closely with partner agencies, local businesses, and the parents and carers of those involved to ensure the most effective multi-agency approach.
“We will always work with our key partners to try and divert young people away from the criminal justice system. However, when young people and their parents do not engage or they allow the behaviour to continue, we are forced to take more robust action.
“Our ask of parents and carers is to consider where your children are throughout the day and evening, and what they might be up to – be intrusive.
“We know from speaking to some parents that they weren’t aware of what their children were doing and have now stopped their behaviour.
“We have written to and visited several parents already to warn them of potential police action, as this behaviour can no longer continue and Warwickshire Police and partners will look at all available options to stop this.”
