Antrim and Newtownabbey partnership launches campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour

In an address on social media, the first citizen, Councillor Jim Montgomery, said: “Recently we have seen a sharp increase in incidents of  anti-social behaviour across the borough. We don’t mean to be overly negative or critical of our young people.

“There is no doubt the Covid 19 and the closure of many activities that would  normally be available to young people have magnified the problem.

“However, it is also the sad reality that too often, groups of young people are engaging in anti-social behaviour causing a real nuisance to other people putting themselves and others in danger and sometimes spiralling into criminal offences.

“Anyone engaging with anti-social behaviour and criminal offences will be dealt with robustly by the police.

“Having a criminal record can have a serious impact on future employment prospects and other aspects of a young person’s life.”

In addition, Antrim and Newtownabbey Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) has launched a campaign urging parents to know the whereabouts of their children following the recent spate.

‘Where is Your Child Tonight?’ is the theme of the new initiative which encourages parents to always be aware of where their children are, what they are doing and who they are with.

The PCSP explained the idea is to encourage parents to talk to their children about the “risks and consequences of drinking, taking drugs and getting involved in anti-social behaviour and to empower them to make the right choices to keep themselves safe”.

The PSNI says some examples of anti-social behaviour are drunken or threatening behaviour, vandalism and graffiti, playing loud music at night.

“Sadly all too often we see the negative impact of anti-social behaviour on our residents. Be rest assured our team will be robust in their approach in dealing with inappropriate behaviour.

“It is unacceptable that our officers and voluntary partners have to look after your child. All too often the young people are under the influence of alcohol/drugs.

“We get numerous reports each weekend of youths engaged in anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the following areas: Newtownabbey, V36 Park; Rathcoole,  The Diamond and the park; Ballyclare, leisure centre, Asda, the park, Mayfield;  Glengormley, Tesco and Lillian Bland Park, to name but a few.”

On Saturday evening, officers were on patrol at Antrim Railway Station and surrounding estates after Translink reported a rise in anti-social behaviour and stressed that public transport must be used responsibly.

The PSNI added: “We do not want to criminalise children but we do want to build confidence in local residents in order to reduce crime and the fear of crime.”

Mobile police patrols, including a CCTV vehicle were in operation at the weekend at “hot spots”.

Lending their support to police in Antrim at the weekend were Councillors Noreen McClelland and Paul Dunlop.

Cllr McClelland commented: “It is a cause for real concern that anti-social behaviour has been on the increase across the borough.

“We are all finding times extremely tough and I would ask those involved to think long and hard about how their actions are adding to the stress and anxiety of their community right now.

“I would encourage all incidents to be reported to the PSNI so that those participating in underage drinking, acts of vandalism or terrorising their neighbours can be dealt with appropriately.

“What may seem like harmless fun to you, risks your health and the health of others. It needs to stop now.”

The council says: “Our parks and public spaces are for everyone to enjoy safely. In response to a recent rise in anti-social behaviour, we have stepped up the frequency and visibility of wardens and security patrols.”

A spokesperson for Police Antrim and Newtownabbey stated: “If your child is hanging around in large groups in these areas in the current Covid climate, then they can expect to have their names recorded, where offences are detected reprimanded, taken home and all details shared with relevant partner agencies if necessary.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.

Click here to read: Significant rise in anti-social behaviour reported across Antrim and Newtownabbey

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