Youth Gang Linked to Torbay Anti-Social Behaviour Surge
Law enforcement officials have confirmed a link between a recent increase in anti-social behaviour (ASB) involving young people in Torbay and a group of approximately 15 youths operating across South Devon and surrounding areas. Reports indicate a noticeable rise in ASB among this demographic in Paignton and Brixham over the past two to four weeks.
Urban Exploration Fuels Rise in Incidents
The behaviour is reportedly connected to urban exploration, with the youths traveling across the region to engage in these activities. Paignton Police have identified the group as comprising about 15 individuals from South Devon, Teignmouth, and Exeter, with additional youths described as being “on the periphery.” Beyond Torbay, these youths have also been observed traveling to Plymouth and Exeter.
Arrests and Enforcement Actions Taken
In anticipation of warmer weather and an ‘extreme heat’ warning, police have made two arrests and are pursuing action against other individuals involved. An 18-year-old and a 16-year-old, both believed to be actively participating in ASB in Brixham town centre, were taken into custody earlier this week. The teenagers were interviewed regarding multiple burglary offences across South Devon, with investigations ongoing.
Community Protection Measures Implemented
The 18-year-old has been issued a Community Protection Notice (CPN) under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime & Policing Act 2014. This notice prohibits engaging in ASB, entering private land or property, or inciting others to do so. A breach of the CPN carries the risk of criminal prosecution. The 16-year-old received a similar Community Protection Warning (CPW), and further discussions are expected with other youths implicated in these incidents.
Multi-Agency Collaboration and Prevention Efforts
A spokesperson for Paignton Police highlighted on social media that law enforcement agencies across Devon and Cornwall have been utilizing various media platforms, including social media, to educate the public about the dangers of urban exploration. The Paignton and Brixham Neighbourhood Team, in collaboration with the Child Centred Policing Team, the Torbay Council ASB Team, and other partner agencies, are actively working to deter youths from urban exploration and ASB through education and family engagement programs.
Older youths (aged 16 and over) are being issued CPWs and CPNs, while other involved youths and their families are receiving ASB letters, with more expected in the coming weeks. Efforts are also underway to collaborate with owners of buildings most at risk of urban exploration to enhance security measures and make properties more resilient to targeting.
Increased Patrols and Parental Warnings
Police have confirmed that increased patrols will be conducted in Brixham and Paignton town centres this weekend, with potential for further patrols in the coming weeks addressing issues related to drugs and ASB-related driving. Parents are being urged to be aware of their children’s whereabouts and activities. The spokesperson added, “The weather is likely to be warm this weekend and youngsters will be out with their friends. We again ask parents to think about what their children are doing in their free time and, if they believe they are involved in this activity, to discuss the dangers with them.”
