Wrexham Inspector responds to recent youth-related ASB reports within the town

Early yesterday evening (8 February), officers were called to reports of a robbery at an off-licence on Kingsmill Road, Wrexham.

 

A small group of male youths entered the store and attempted to steal items from the counter area.

When challenged by a member of staff, one of the youths removed a bottle from a display and struck him to the head.

This resulted in the victim sustaining a head wound which bled heavily.

Officer attendance at the scene was prompt, with five arrests made for the robbery.

Those arrested were aged between 14-16 years old and had limited prior involvement with the police in the town.

All have been released on police bail pending enquiries; they have been placed on a curfew from 5pm –7am and have condition of non-association.

Area Inspector Luke Hughes reflected on the seriousness of the incident and shared his concerns about the scale of ASB in the town presently.

He said: “It is extremely worrying that this occurred. It must have been very traumatic for the victim and must also cause concerns for residents and small businesses locally.

“It is pointless, disappointing behaviour and the consequences for individuals of previous good character could be catastrophic.

“Sadly, since early December we have seen an increase in ASB in the town centre. We have taken a robust stance in this regard with a number of arrests being made in addition to those overnight.

“Three Dispersal Orders have also recently been issued to break up large groups of youths gathering in the town centre, which has mitigated the problem to a degree.

“I do have to highlight my disappointment in the lack of concern from some parents; we can evidence that many will bring their children in from various locations outside of Wrexham, including Flintshire and even Ellesmere Port.

“The youths then roam around causing issues, before they are collected. When parents are challenged about their children’s behaviour they can be dismissive of what we report to them.

“I want to reassure the public that we are taking this matter seriously. This sort of behaviour in our town is totally unacceptable.

“We will resolve these issues and I am determined that it should not distract from the positivity in Wrexham at the moment - the City of Culture 2025 and the city statues bid, or any of the other fantastic projects that are ongoing.

“Wrexham is doing well, ASB is down significantly and those who cause these issues will be dealt with robustly.”