Seven young people in Rye have been issued with Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and made to apologize to victims after a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour in the town before Christmas.
It’s believed several other Contracts have also been given out by Sussex Police who say they will “continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the effectiveness of these measures and the safety of Rye residents.”
In one incident a group of young people gained unauthorised access to a retirement home in Rye causing significant distress for residents after a fire alarm was triggered. East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene.
A spokesperson for Sussex Police said those involved were identified through CCTV footage and officers conducted home visits. “Working with the parents of the people involved officers implemented a range of tailored interventions to address the behaviours. Seven Acceptable Behaviour Contracts were issued, as were seven Community Resolutions which included written apologies from the young people to those affected.”
The aim of the interventions was described as steering “the young people back on the right track to foster a positive change in behaviour.”
PC Paul Fielder, from the Rye Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We understand the impact incidents like these have on our community, especially on vulnerable residents. By taking swift action and working in partnership with families, housing associations, and support programmes, we are committed to addressing the root causes of anti-social behaviour and preventing further incidents.”
Residents are encouraged to report any further issues or concerns to police online or by calling 101.
Image Credits: Chris Lawson .
Although the Acceptable Behaviour Contracts and apologies system sounds like a good concept, they will have little effect unless the parents/carers take responsibility to monitor and address their children’s behaviour. As for a written apology, anyone could write a letter or email, but visiting the victim under supervision of a police officer to apologise in person would mean so much more – to both victims and perpetrators.
So, a gang invaded a HOME for old people and got away with it without prison terms but a “swift” slap on the wrist. I am sure that cured them of their chronic delinquency …
So sensible to act quickly and (probably) effectively. In such cases the parents should always be involved. Well done.
Local Police have been commendably proactive in addressing anti-social behavior (ASB) and criminal damage, and their efforts deserve recognition. However, it is clear that a broader, more coordinated response is needed. I believe there has been a shortfall in achieving this. Young people bring unique value to our community, and the 99% who contribute positively to Rye and Winchelsea should not be unfairly associated with the actions of a small minority responsible for these issues. This highlights the importance of working together even more closely as a community—schools, councils, local organisations, and residents to foster an environment where everyone can thrive. I’ll be continuing to do this at a Rother level and beyond.
What *exactly* is a “coordinated response”, Cllr McGurk?
What does that mean, in practice?
A feral gang did a home invasion and terrified a group of old p[eople.
In many countries and cultures not only the offenders but also their parents and even their families are held responsible in a forthright and tangible way, especially for crimes on the old.
Having to “write a letter” if you are caught is not a deterrent.
An overhaul of security at the home is the first thing that springs to my mind. The cost that is met for residency in a home should surely factor in security?
As for the offenders, I would recommend a minimum of community service – perhaps assisting the elderly for a week or two!
In the block of flats where I live a proposal to install CCTV in the lobby area was met with outrage by some of the residents, some even threatening legal action against the board if installed.