Police crack down on 'violent and intimidating' teens as young as 14 in Buckingham

Officers took action as part of a partnership response addressing violent behaviour and intimidation involving a group of young people between the ages of 14 and 18.

The 12 arrests were in relation to a string of incidents that took place in and around Chandos Park in the town.

Subsequent enquiries showed a number of linked incidents, including robbery, violent disorder, drug supply, assault, criminal damage, knife crime, harassment and intimidation, say police.

All of those arrested have now been released on conditional bail while investigations continue.

Detective Inspector Craig Burchall, based at Aylesbury police station, who is leading the investigation, said: “This group is a very small minority of the community, but their actions have caused significant problems.

“I hope that through education and further engagement most will understand the impact of their behaviour and change.

“For those that don’t, enforcement action is the police response. If you have any information on this group please call police on 101 or report online via the Thames Valley Police website quoting reference 43200365990.

“You can also report anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“The series of incidents reported over recent months has shown how quickly taunting and threatening behaviour, both in person and online, can escalate to serious violence, intimidation and cause long-lasting harm to victims.”

Local Policing Area Commander for Aylesbury Vale, Superintendent Mike Loebenberg, said: “Violent crime is one of our top priorities and working with our newly formed Violence Reduction Unit, we are committed to stamping this out and make our communities safer.

“As well as the actions that have taken place over the last two days, there have been and will continue to be re-assurance patrols in the area.

“We are also able to stop-and-search individuals where there is a reasonable cause to do so, and as a result of some of these actions, weapons have been taken off the streets in recent days.

“I would like to thank the people of Buckingham for their support, and would urge anybody who has any information surrounding incidents of violence to please speak to one of our officers.

“Similarly, if you have been the victim of any intimidating or threatening behaviour, please report this to Thames Valley Police, either by using our online form or by calling 101. You can also seek support from Victims’ First.”