CCTV helps catch yobs in clampdown
YOUTHS who caused mayhem on the Metrolink network by throwing rocks at passengers and ‘tram surfing’ are being brought to justice.
A total of 10 youngsters, aged between nine and 14, were involved in two high profile incidents of antisocial behaviour on trams last month (June).
Rocks were thrown at three trams, injuring one passenger, on June 14 – causing the Rochdale via Oldham line to grind to a halt.
Then, on June 30, three teens aged between 14 and 15 were caught tram surfing – clinging to the outside of the carriage – while it went through the city centre.
The offenders were caught using CCTV, a spokesman for TfGM said.
Police and Metrolink bosses issued a stark safety warning that tram surfing was becoming a dangerous craze after a number of similar incidents were reported to them following that incident. The TravelSafe Partnership, which deals with crime, antisocial behaviour and fare evasion on the Metrolink, are dealing with the youths through the restorative justice system.
Restorative justice focuses on rehabilitating offenders by getting them engaged in the community and meeting victims.
A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said it is too early in the process to say whether the offenders will meet their victims or what form any community service element may take.
Deputy Mayor for policing and crime, Bev Hughes, said: “Restorative Justice is a method whereby offenders are confronted with the impact of their crime and that can be a powerful deterrent to committing further offences, especially to young people. It is really important that every member of our community feels safe to travel on public transport without feeling intimidated or unduly concerned by the behaviour of others.
“The TSP is dedicated to supporting safe and secure travel, and there will be teams of officers patrolling our networks throughout the summer to provide help and assistance as well as working to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour.”
Chief Supt Neil Evans said: “Public transport is a safe way to travel and the purpose of the TravelSafe Partnership is to help reinforce and maintain that safety.
“Thankfully nobody was seriously hurt in the incidents that took place earlier on this year, but this could easily have been a very different story with devastating consequences. The use of restorative justice is an example of how we can assist children and young people in seeing the error of their ways and potentially prevent any further involvement with criminal activities.
“The ages of these young people demonstrates my previous message that countering this behaviour is a responsibility far wider than the police and parents have a key role and responsibility.
“I reiterate that message again today.
“Under the partnership, a dedicated team of officers will provide regular patrols on the region’s networks during the summer holidays focusing on preventative measures and youth education to ensure that people can travel safely across Greater Manchester.”