Parents are urged to talk to their children about the impact of anti-social behaviour after a rise in incidents in West Cumbria.
Police have received a number of reports of young people knocking and running away from properties with incidents reported in Workington, Seaton, Flimby, Maryport and Cockermouth.
Sergeant Leesa Edwards said: “Although this may seem like harmless fun to young people it can have a distressing effect on members of our community and in particular the vulnerable members of our community.
“Some of the incidents reported have been more than just a knock on the door with residents reporting their doors being kicked. This has caused damage to a number of doors and in one incident the door panel was kicked in.”
The Neighbourhood Policing Team has been conducting patrols to disrupt this behaviour but are asking parents to consider what their children are doing while out in the community.
Officers identified two young people in Maryport who apologised to the victim.
The team is also working with social landlords to address the ongoing issue with a view of identifying those responsible and addressing their behaviour. Those who report incidents are being contacted and offered support.
Sergeant Edwards added: “We have made contact with local schools to make them aware of the issues reported asking for their support to get the message out to pupils and parents and guardians.
“We would like to ask parents and guardians to speak to the children and the young people in your care regarding the potential impact their behaviour could have on other people.”
“Please ask your young people to please be respectful and to abide by the law. There are consequences, including the potential of a criminal record, if offences are committed.”
