Police cracking down on antisocial behaviour on estate

PARENTS WARNED THEY COULD LOSE THEIR HOMES

Reporter MUMS and dads have been warned they could lose their homes unless they control their chidlren, some just 11, who are running wild on a Tyneside estate.

The group of youngsters, aged from 11 to 17, have been reportedly gathering in Meadow Well and causing trouble for residents.

Police say the vast majority of troublemakers don’t live in the area but are arriving from other parts of North Shields and even Wallsend, often on the Metro.

Their behaviour has involved suspected criminal damage, including throwing stones, setting bins on fire, being abusive, intimidating law-abiding residents, littering and riding bikes or scooters dangerously.

Now their parents have been warned they could be evicted from their homes if their youngsters don’t stop causing problems.

Police officers and representatives from North Tyneside Council turned up on their doorstep at 7am on Friday and handed them letters telling them action will be taken to make sure estates are free from antisocial behaviour.

The letter said: “Have no doubt, we will take whatever action necessary to achieve this.”

Nine homes were visited as part of Operation Respect, with parents answering doors in their pyjamas or dressing gowns.

Some claimed they did not know their children had been involved in any disorder, while others said they were trying their best to control the antics of their teens.

At one address in Chirton, a mum refused to come to the door but spoke to the team from a first-floor window. She was visited because of the actions of her son.

She said: “I’m not coming to the door. What you’re doing is disgusting.”

At another house, a couple were told their 11-year-old son must start behaving.

The mother said: “It’s a nightmare, I’m trying my best. I’m doing the best I can.”

Insp Michelle Caisley, of North Tyneside Area Command, said the operation was important as it helped to curb disorder and ensure communities were safe.

And Richard Mitchell, the council’s community protection manager, added: “We are fortunate in North Tyneside that antisocial behaviour is not widespread but, when it does happen, it can have a major impact on residents’ lives.

“We will not tolerate antisocial