Call for community’s support to tackle illegal scrambler use in Newtownabbey

Police in Newtownabbey are appealing for the community’s support following a spike in the illegal use of quad bikes and scramblers.
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A PSNI spokesperson said: “We are receiving an increased number of calls regarding the use of scramblers. Not only are those responsible posing a safety risk, they are causing a nuisance for residents.

“Anti-social behaviour comes in many forms, scramblers, noisy neighbours, kids running wild. It is very clear the community are at their wits’ end.

“Please have a talk with the youth in your care, guide them to make wise choices. The excuse of ‘kids have nothing to do’ does not wash or condone bad and criminal behaviour. Please continue to report anti-social behaviour in your area.”

A scrambler was seized by Antrim Neighbourhood PSNI officers on February 18.A scrambler was seized by Antrim Neighbourhood PSNI officers on February 18.
A scrambler was seized by Antrim Neighbourhood PSNI officers on February 18.

Supporting the police appeal, Antrim and Newtownabbey DUP Councillor Stephen Ross said: “This activity is very dangerous. This week I heard about a deaf pensioner out walking her dog in New Mossley, when a scrambler sped up from behind her and startled her. It was a very traumatic ordeal for the lady.

“Young people aged around 15 are riding these off-road vehicles on footpaths and green areas in the estate. People are almost being struck, the constant noise is distressing for elderly residents and the grass areas are being cut up, meaning children aren’t able to play on the grass.”

The Threemilewater representative added: “Parents need to know that this is unacceptable. They have bought these bikes for their children and they need to be responsible.”

Cllr Ross appealed for a partnership approach with the Housing Executive as the landowners, the PSNI, Policing and Community Safety Partnership, the council and the community working together to tackle this issue.

“The community needs to be sending out the message that the illegal use of scramblers is not acceptable. It needs to stop now before someone is seriously hurt.”

Meanwhile, officers from Antrim Neighbourhood Policing Team seized a scrambler yesterday (Thursday). A police spokesperson said: “One male will be reported for the matter.”

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In December the Newtownabbey Times reported that police had conducted patrols at the Cave Hill Country Park in a bid to discourage the illegal use of scramblers and quads.

For more in this story, read here

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