Young people in a South Cumbrian town have been dealt with following a spate of anti-social behaviour and theft.
South Lakes Police said officers worked with schools and organisations and identified the youngsters responsible quickly.
It said the matter had now been resolved via a Community Resolution and Restorative Justice approach.
South Lakes Police said: “This process puts the victim at the centre. The young people involved admitted their actions, took responsibility for their mistakes, and engaged positively throughout.
“The victim chose to take part and played a vital role in shaping the outcome, helping to ensure it was fair, proportionate and focused on making things right.
“Restorative justice gives victims the opportunity to be heard, ask questions and achieve closure, while helping young people understand the real impact of their behaviour and learn from it — without unnecessarily drawing them into the criminal justice system.
“Children can and often do make questionable decisions, that’s a part of growing up and an element of human nature.
“The important aspect of any such incident is to draw a distinction between what’s acceptable and what isn’t.
“This case shows that policing isn’t always about arrests and court process. Sometimes, especially where children and young people are involved, a constructive and proportionate response can lead to better and more impactive outcomes for victims, families and the wider community.
“Thank you to the victim for their positive engagement, and to our local schools for their continued support in keeping our community safe.
“The children in this case recognised they crossed a line and that their fun and games may not be viewed quite so jovially by those affected, they held their hands up and did the right thing.”
