Operation targets youths throwing objects at buses in Middlesbrough

An operation to stamp out mindless criminal damage being caused to buses and other vehicles has been launched in Middlesbrough.

Vehicles have been targeted in recent weeks by youths throwing stones and other objects.

The issue became so bad in recent weeks that some buses were removed from service on Overdale Road in Park End.

But thanks to work from Cleveland Police, Middlesbrough Council's neighbourhood team in East Middlesbrough - and other partners - a number of offenders have been identified, with visits carried out to the homes of youths in the area.

Neighbourhood wardens travelled on buses and followed bus routes in their own vehicle in an attempt to deter further attacks and identify the youths responsible, while the Council’s Neighbourhood Safety Officer engaged with local families to warn that legal action could be taken.

Additional CCTV was installed to cover a nearby play park where gangs had been gathering.  

And this week, plain clothes officers from Cleveland Police supported the work by travelling on buses through the area to gather intelligence and identify further culprits.

Thanks to the co-ordinated response, issues in the area have significantly reduced.

Police also implemented a dispersal order in Coulby Newham to tackle a similar issue with objects being thrown at buses and other vehicles.

It gave officers the power to order people to leave an area bordered by Newham Way, Stainton Way, Ryehills Way and the B1365.

Neighbourhood Inspector Des Horton, from Cleveland Police, said: “We have shown that we will not tolerate this behaviour and will take action will be taken against anyone found to be throwing objects at vehicles. 

“This is not antisocial behaviour, it is crime. It is dangerous and puts people at risk. Anyone who is identified as being involved will be dealt with appropriately by police and partners, as we work together to tackle the issue.”

Cllr Ian Blades, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods at Middlesbrough Council, said: "This is stupid, dangerous behaviour that not only causes damage but can put lives at risk.

“We will continue to work closely with Cleveland Police and other partners to identify those responsible and put a stop to this on behalf of the vast majority Middlesbrough people fed up of this mindless behaviour.

"I want to thank everyone who has worked hard to deal with the issue, not least our Neighbourhood Safety Officer who has successfully manahed to engage with young people and local families.

"He reminded them that they are part of a community and should take pride in where they live. For the most part, our young people are respectful and well behaved and don't need to be let down by the actions of these irresponsible individuals."

Middlesbrough Council and Cleveland Police have also worked closely with social housing company Thirteen, who accompanied officers on home visits and warned that tenancy action can be taken against families with children involved in antisocial behaviour.