Teenagers caught causing trouble in town decide to give back

Two teenagers who were discovered trying to frighten a woman inside her own home have taken part in a community reparation project after admitting their involvement.

Cumbria Police reported that the youths damaged garden gates in Maryport and repeatedly struck and kicked the front door of one local resident. After they were identified, and with the backing of their parents, both agreed to take responsibility for their actions by joining a local litter-picking initiative aimed at repairing the harm caused.

Sergeant Neil McKinnell from the Workington Neighbourhood Policing Team explained that choosing restorative work instead of pressing charges allows young people to learn from their behaviour without carrying the long-term consequences of a criminal record.

He said that these types of community payback measures are proven to lower the risk of repeat offences and can significantly reduce the likelihood of first-time, minor offenders committing further wrongdoing.

Police also referred to a similar incident at a Dominos Pizza store in Workington, where several youths were reported for throwing eggs at the building.

According to a police spokesperson, one teenager who was caught in the act agreed to clean up the mess, while two others who were causing disruption and interfering with officers consented to take part in litter collection and the cleaning of police vehicles.

Author: Benjamin Carter