Police increase patrols

The police have said they have increased patrols in Wallace Park to help tackle anti-social incident in the area.
The damaged fountainThe damaged fountain
The damaged fountain

Inspector Mark Robinson said: “Over the past number of weekends police have received numerous reports of anti-social behaviour at Wallace Park.

“Local police are consulting with city councillors about securing the park in an effort to stop anyone entering after hours. Anyone caught in the park when closed could be reported for trespassing.

“I would also ask parents to take responsibility for what their children get up to when out and about with their friends. You need to know where your children are, who they are with and what they are doing.

“Young people might think that this type of behaviour is just ‘fooling around’ but the potential consequences are very serious. An arrest for criminal damage or other serious incident connected to anti-social behaviour can lead to a prosecution which could affect your travel, education and employment opportunities in the future.”

He went onto say, “Past experience has shown that the best way to tackle the entire problem is when the community come together and work alongside police, local council and other partnership agencies to engage with young people. PSNI in this district would urge parents and others with influence to support us in educating teenagers about what is and is not acceptable behaviour.

“Patrols were increased in the area to prevent and detect any crime that was happening and we are still of the belief that a partnership approach is the most effective way of successfully addressing this issue with a focus on prevention, securing the site and providing diversionary activities for young people.

“Anyone who has information on who is involved in this behaviour should call police in Lisburn and Castlereagh City District on 101. In an emergency, call 999. Anyone found taking part in this type of behaviour will be dealt with accordingly.”

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