Move to tackle unruly gangs - Great Yarmouth News

 

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Friday 25th May 2007
Move to tackle unruly gangs

More than 40 letters are being sent out to Lowestoft families warning that their youngsters could be made the subject of anti-social behaviour orders if their behaviour does not improve.
Parents of children who are thought to be unruly are being targeted as part of an initiative to tackle large gangs roaming around the streets of Lowestoft.
Meanwhile, CCTV cameras are being placed where the youths congregate ito monitor their behaviour.
The purge on anti-social behaviour has been launched as police admit criminal damage accounts for a third of all crime in the Lowestoft area.
Rachel Tucker, anti-social behaviour officer for Waveney District Council, said a group of up to 25 youths congregating around north Lowestoft had been causing particular concern in recent weeks.
The gangs are largely made up of boys and girls aged between 13 and 17 and while the majority of them have so far been dealt with by letters being sent to their parents, more severe action is being planned against ringleaders who are thought to be leading others astray.
Ms Tucker said they could be hit with anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs), which can lead to custodial sentences if ignored, but stressed offenders were given every opportunity to improve their behaviour before it got to this stage.
As well as sending out letters, youngsters can also be made the subject of acceptable behaviour contracts and interim orders before they are finally hit with ASBOs.
Problems have included criminal damage to cars, graffiti and the intimidation of residents. Ms Tucker said the use of CCTV cameras and a youth nuisance register were also proving effective tools.
Anyone with information about anti-social behaviour and criminal damage can contact Lowestoft police via 01986 835100 or Waveney District Council's ASBO team on 01502 523111.