Youth crime blitz (From Penarth Times)

Youth crime blitz

PENARTH'S rocketing youth crime could be blitzed if plans to set up a youth offender panel go ahead.

The Home Office is planning to implement the crucial panels across the country on April 1 with one in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Local people sitting on panels will work with young offenders, their families and victims of crime to help put right the harm and prevent future offending.

It comes just months after the Penarth Times highlighted youth crime in the town.

Penarth police claimed groups of 60 teenagers were meeting weekly on the Esplanade, vandalising the pier and bothering local gymnasts in their Pavilion club. They also reported youngsters congregating in Penarth's parks were drinking and vandalising benches.

Plans to set up the panel come as the Government cracks down on youth street crime and violence due to soaring figures. Between 2000 and 2001, street crime rose by 13 percent and has increased further this year despite a decline in overall crime.

Home Secretary David Blunkett said recently: "We literally must reclaim our streets for the decent law-abiding citizens who want to be able to walk safely, live peacefully, and go about their business untroubled by the fear of attack."

Zarah Newman, the Vale's youth offending team officer, said: "We are looking for men and women of any age, 18 or over, and from every ethnic and social background, to help tackle youth crime in our community.

"Potential youth offender panel members will be given full training to prepare them for this challenging but rewarding role."

Launching the national campaign, Home Office Minister Beverley Hughes said: "Young people need to understand that whenever a crime is committed, there are consequences. In many cases there is an injured party and a very real effect on people in the wider community.

"Anyone who cares about crime in their local community should consider applying to be a panel member. No one should feel they are not qualified to do this, or that they are not the right sort of person."

* For more information, contact Zarah Newman or Bibi Davies at the Vale of Glamorgan Youth Offending Team on 01446 745820.