A group of youths suspected of vandalising North Shields town centre, causing thousands of pounds in damage and injuring a member of the public, have been identified and issued with legal warnings.
On Monday 20 January, it was reported that around 15-20 individuals had allegedly vandalised the entrance doors and toilets at the new North Shields Transport Hub, intimidated residents, and assaulted a passerby.
Following a detailed CCTV review, officers from Northumbria Police and North Tyneside Council’s Community Protection Team identified a number of people in connection with the reports.
On Friday 7 March, teams visited their homes, issuing legal warnings, behaviour agreements, and tenancy enforcement action under Operation Respect—a joint initiative tackling crime and disorder across the borough.
Councillor Karen Clark, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Community Safety, said: “This was a serious incident that left a resident injured and caused significant damage to a key part of our town centre. Thanks to swift work from the police and council officers, suspects have been identified, and action has been taken. This kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Five youths, aged 11 to 15, have since been charged in connection with the reports for offences including youth disorder, racial harassment, criminal damage, shoplifting, and public order offences.
The pedestrian suffered minor facial injuries and was taken to hospital. Damage to the transport hub’s entrance doors was estimated at £3,000, with temporary closures causing disruption for passengers.
Inspector Michael Hood, of Northumbria Police’s North Shields Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: “No-one should have to put up with crime and anti-social behaviour in their community which is why when we received reports of this incident, we immediately began a full and thorough investigation.
“Working alongside our partners, we have identified several people suspected of being involved and are taking proactive steps to address this through a range of powers.
“I hope this acts as a strong deterrent to others – be aware that action will be taken against you if you cause anti-social behaviour that impacts upon the local community.
“We want people who live in, work in and visit North Tyneside to feel safe and comfortable doing so. By working with our partners at the council, Operation Respect continues to play a vital role in ensuring that happens.”
Northumbria Police and North Tyneside Council remain committed to tackling anti-social behaviour and protecting the community.
To report crime or anti-social behaviour, send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat function and report forms on the Force website.
For those unable to contact police via those ways, call 101.
In an emergency situation, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.