POLICE have slapped more than 30 out-of-control youngsters on an offenders' register after a night time "scuffle" in a quiet Ipswich street.It is thought to be the largest number of tearaways ever put on the youth nuisance register in one go.
POLICE have placed more than 30 out-of-control youngsters on an offenders' register after a night time "scuffle" in a quiet Ipswich street.
It is thought to be the largest number of tearaways ever put on the youth nuisance register in one go.
The brawl, reported in June, was part of ongoing problems with preteen hooligans in Cowper Street.
In a petition to the council, Michael Appleton, said: "As well as being involved in theft and trespass, these young people have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to cars and property. Physically and verbally abused residents and brought bricks, sticks and knives into the area for fights."
Earlier this year police were called to an incident involving 50 children in the quiet residential neighbourhood, which includes Mandy Close.
Mr Appleton dubbed the trouble makers "fearless" and accused them of congregating at the house of an "out of control" 14-year-old girl.
Cowper Street resident Craig Edwards, one of more than 50 to sign the petition, also reported a "Wild West" brawl to police in May.
He said: "It's all part of the same problem, though it does seem to be getting better."
Parents of troublemakers on the Youth Nuisance Register are written to by police in an attempt to control misbehaviour before it gets out of hand.
The register was set up to monitor behaviour not serious enough to warrant an anti-social behaviour order or an acceptable behaviour contract.
But according to police, who have stepped up patrols in the area, the situation is now under control.
Inspector Andy Solomon, said: "We are aware of the problem and have targeted the area with special constables and extra community beat officers at the times when the problems are at their worst.
"After one incident in June, up to 30 youngsters were placed on the youth nuisance register and we are currently working with the council and other agencies to improve the situation."
Should a youngster already on the youth nuisance register reoffend then another letter is sent to parents before a meeting is set up.
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