POLICE are running nightly dedicated patrols in Woodrow following a spate of anti social behaviour.
These were in addition to daytime high visibility patrols following community concerns by youths in the area, said Redditch’s Police Inspector Lee Page.
“The Redditch Safer Neighbourhood Team have been aware of the community concerns over the last few days and weeks and are taking action,” he said.
“We have stepped up high-visibility policing in the area, with nightly dedicated patrols.
“On Tuesday evening (April 5) we arrested a 12-year-old boy on suspicion of criminal damage and assault.
The arrest came after damage was caused to a sign at a shop in the Woodrow Centre and a child was assaulted on nearby Cropthorne Close. They were not seriously injured.
“The boy has been bailed with strict conditions pending further enquiries.”
He added that officers were working closely with other agencies including Redditch Borough Council and youth outreach workers to tackle the issues raised by the community.
“I would encourage residents to get in contact with police to discuss any concerns they have,” he said.
The police reaction follows widespread disquiet at anti social behaviour on the estate.
There have been reports of destructive and criminal behaviour by youths aged between an estimated 12 and 15 years old, both boys and girls.
Stones have been thrown at houses, cars and even other residents and children and reports of fires being set outside people’s homes.
Woodrow is normally seen as a quiet area of town these days but angry residents are now calling for action to stamp the spike in unruly behaviour.
