Police arrest boy, 14, over window damage

Officers have arrested a 14-year-old boy in connection to reports of criminal damage at Hetton Bus Interchange which saw 18 windows shattered.

Police have confirmed that a 14-year-old boy has been arrested after they received a report of criminal damage at HettonInterchange at around 5 am on Tuesday.

It is understood that 18 windows at the terminus had been smashed overnight and the teenager has since been released on bail.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “On Tuesday at around 5am we received a report of criminal damage at Hetton Interchange.

“It was reported a number of windows at the terminus had been smashed at some point overnight.

“An investigation was launched and officers arrested a 14-year-old male in connection with the incident. He has since been released on bail.”

A rise in anti-social behaviour in both Houghton and H et ton prompted Northumbria Police to launch Operation Avalanche in January last year–with officers dee ming it to be success on Thursday.

The force says that anti-social behaviour reports have dropped by up to 30% and youth disorder specifically has almost halved in the areas.

Police also revealed that more than 50 teenagers have been dealt with by home visits to suspects and their parents, with some persistent offenders reported for public order offences.

Councillor David Geddis said: "There’s just a lack of respect from the kids and the teenagers and they’re destroying their own town.”