'Don't cop a criminal record' Ross police urge rowdies; antisocial behaviour flagged in Muir of Ord
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AN outbreak of antisocial behaviour in a Ross-shire village ranging from vandalism and theft to stone throwing has prompted a warning to perpetrators they could be saddled with potentially life-changing criminal records.
Police said officers had charted a rise in antisocial behaviour in Muir of Ord in recent weeks and warned it would not be tolerated.
Amid calls in some quarters for neighbour watch schemes to be set up, the local community council has called on concerned locals to ensure they log concerns with the police as it moves to reassure vulnerable residents.
A spokesman for the Highlands and Islands branch of Police Scotland told the Journal: "Police in Ross-shire are working with local community groups in response to a series of incidents involving youths in the Muir of Ord area.
"Officers have seen a rise in anti-social behaviour in recent weeks. Incidents have included stones, apples and eggs being thrown, vandalism, theft and youths gathering in large groups."
Inspector Kevin MacLeod said: “We take these kind of incidents seriously and are working with the community council and others to send out the message that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.
“We are urging those involved to think about the consequences of their actions which could lead to having a criminal record and therefore an effect on their future. We are also urging parents to be aware of where their children are and what they are doing.
“Anyone found to be involved in committing an offence will be dealt with accordingly and in the strongest terms. Incidents like these should be reported to Police Scotland."
The appeal to parents echoes similar calls made by police and community leaders last year when a spoke in incidents in Dingwall, Evanton, Alness, Invergordon and Tain involving brawling, vandalism, drinking and in
some cases drug use set alarm bells ringing. Parents were urged then to help overstretched police and youth workers.
Muir of Ord Community Council took to its Facebook page to issue an appeal to locals. It said: "Last year we had a number of reports of antisocial behaviour in the village and we worked with the police to raise awareness and improve the situation. Whilst there was little of issue over the summer we are now hearing reports of an increase, for example egg and stone throwing, as the nights draw in.
"We are keen to ensure that the situation does not escalate again this winter and therefore ask that any issues be reported. It’s important that any incidents are reported in order to understand how serious the problem is within the village and of course we want to support and reassure vulnerable residents in the village."
Incidents can be reported to police on 101 or anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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