Posted on Friday 13th April 2012
Adults who are fuelling anti-social behaviour and endangering the safety of young people by illegally buying alcohol for the under-18s have been caught red-handed.
Partner agencies responding to community concerns in Ynysybwl were shocked when they caught two adults red-handed as they gave into the pleas of teens and bought them strong spirits such as vodka.
Both were given a fixed penalty fine and have also been told they will no longer be able to buy alcohol from their local shop. One woman who was caught admitted the offence on the spot while a 19-year-old, who fled when he was seen handing over the booze, was later dealt with.
Partners descended on Robert Street earlier this month and surveyed activity outside the busy shop during the busy Friday evening. Their action was as a result of anti-social behaviour near the Cord Y Cwm bridge and on the recreation field at Heol Y Plwf.
As well as dealing with the two adults who should have known better, the operation also saw the seizure of a crate of lager from youths in the bandstand area and the parents of youths who partners came into contact with will be spoken to.
Local Inspector Nigel Griffiths has issued a warning to locals. He said: “Two people were caught in as many hours, so I am assuming this is a regular occurrence.
“Buying alcohol for minors is a serious offence. People aren’t fully appreciating the consequences of their actions.
“The teenagers are persistent and are purposefully making a nuisance of themselves to the shop’s customers, but they know it works, and that some people don’t like to say no or just agree for an easy time.
“But in doing this they are fuelling anti social behaviour, crime and are even putting young lives at risk.
“These operations will continue, and anyone caught buying alcohol for people who are underage will be dealt with robustly,” he added.
Phil Bevan, Head of Community Safety, said: “Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour remains one of the priority concerns of our communities and this is an issue that is set to gather pace as the warmer weather, lighter evenings and summer holidays draw near.
“It is shocking to believe there are adults out there who think it is ok to buy alcohol, including strong spirits, and give it to those who are under the age of 18. The law is there for a reason and those who break it will face the consequences, as those who were fined found out.
“As well as causing disorder issues for local communities, alcohol consumption among those who are under the age of 18 continues to be a cause for concern as they are endangering their health and personal safety, with alcohol affecting how they behave and their perceptions.”
Find out more about alcohol consumption and how it can affect those under the age of 18 at www.wreckedlastnight.com|