Wrecking spree could get worse

VANDALISM: Young Angus thugs’ summer of destruction

A summer of destruction by youths in Arbroath has sparked fears of “more serious criminality” in future.

Although last year’s 2,720 complaints regarding disorder between April and September 2017 dropped to 2,582 during the same period in 2018, Tayside’s top policeman pointed out the 2017 figure was the highest ever. Chief Superintendent Andrew Todd said: “The number of complaints of disorder decreased slightly by 5.1% over the reporting period with vandalisms reducing by 10.1%.

“These reductions are positive but need to be considered alongside the highest-ever level of recorded anti-social behaviour for Angus.”

Vandals painted graffiti on 12th Century Arbroath Abbey, smashed a window and set off fire extinguishers after scaling scaffolding that had been erected for conservation.

In August vandals also trashed a memorial garden and drink-fuelled teenagers in groups up to 30-strong have thrown stones at cars, committed assaults and caused other damage.

“Partners should be under no illusion the level of future challenge this could represent. CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT ANDREW TODD

Tayside’s top police officer has warned an orgy of destruction by youths in Arbroath could simply be the tip of the iceberg.

Chief Superintendent Andrew Todd said there is a real threat of “more serious criminality” following this summer’s vandalism spree which happened in the wake of “the highest ever level of recorded anti-social behaviour for Angus”.

A multi-agency partnership has now been tasked with exploring opportunities around specific mentoring programmes to tackle the ongoing youth issues.

Vandals painted graffiti on 12th Century Arbroath Abbey, smashed a window and set off fire extinguishers after scaling scaffolding that had been erected for conservation.

The stonework was tagged with the initials “AYT”, believed to stand for “Arbroath Young Team”.

Damage inflicted during the two-day vandalism spree in July may never be fully repaired after specialists said it has proved impossible to safely remove the paint from the soft, porous sandstone.

In August, during a summer of discontent in the town, vandals also trashed a memorial garden at the gateway attraction created in honour of individuals and veterans.

Drink-fuelled teenagers in groups up to 30-strong have also been wandering the streets and gathering in town centre locations including supermarkets and the bus station.

One of the most common issues relates to supermarkets being used as congregation points for large numbers, which have deterred many people from purchasing groceries.

The young thugs have also thrown stones at cars, committed assaults and caused other damage through their anti-social behaviour.

Mr Todd’s report from Aprilseptember will be presented to councillors in Forfar tomorrow at a meeting of the scrutiny and audit committee.

Last year’s 2,720 complaints regarding disorder between April and September 2017 were the highest on record, which dropped to 2,582 during the same period in 2018.

He said: “The number of complaints of disorder decreased slightly by 5.1% over the reporting period with vandalisms reducing by 10.1%.

“These reductions are positive but need to be considered alongside the highest-ever level of recorded anti-social behaviour for Angus.

“This will take a concerted effort by all partners to address.

“Partners should be under no illusion the level of future challenge this could represent with anti-social behaviour and incidences of disorder leading to more serious criminality.

“The effects of this activity is felt most in Arbroath; where youth related disorder and anti-social behaviour remains a key issue.

“A community officer has been dedicated to support work at Arbroath Academy, Arbroath High School and Ladyloan Primary School.”

Picture: Paul Reid. Vandals damaged 12th Century Arbroath Abbey earlier this year.