Police warning to stone throwers

The warning comes after a police patrol came under attack from youths throwing stones in the central area on Wednesday, March 24.

Enquiries into this incident are ongoing and police have obtained descriptions of a number of those involved and are warning that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

A spokesman said: "It cannot be stressed strongly enough how dangerous this type of behaviour is, young people should not believe for one second that this is just a bit of fun or an idle way to pass time.

"In reality a stone thrown at any vehicle could shatter a window, cause the driver to lose control and potentially put the lives of passengers, the emergency services or other road users at serious risk.

"Sustained attacks on police patrols and other emergency services can adversely affect the service being provided to that area which, in turn, affects the entire community."

He added: "Neighbourhood officers are committed to tackling this issue and are prepared to use ASBO’s, Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and other means to put a stop to this reckless activity - where necessary offenders will be prosecuted. Police are urging parents to play an active role in preventing your children becoming mixed up in this type of activity.

"Make sure your children are not involved in stone throwing. If they are, speak to them about the real danger they are posing to others.

"We would also encourage anyone who witnesses stone throwing in their area to note down good descriptions of offenders so that police can work quickly to identify these culprits.

The telephone number to call with any information is 0845 600 8000."