Members from the Youth Crime Unit and General Duties have arrested five youths aged between 11 and 15 years in relation to an unlawful entry that occurred yesterday.

The new unit, staffed by 11 NT Police members, is an initiative to tackle youth issues in the Greater Darwin Region such as antisocial behaviour and other offences committed by youths.

It is alleged that at 4:00 am yesterday morning a male staff member attended the Fannie Bay Race Course, locating a number of youths in the bar area.

Approximately $100 worth of alcohol was stolen as the youths fled the scene.

Police were called to the location where it was established that the offenders had gained entry by smashing two glass panels, causing approximately $1 800 worth of damage.

Members later located all five of the alleged offenders, three males aged 11, 12 and 14 and two females aged 11 and 15 and conveyed them to the Darwin Watch House.

They were charged with numerous offences including:

Enter a building at night with intent
Stealing
Preparing to commit crime
Criminal damage.

The 11-year-old female and 12 and 14-year-old males were remanded in custody to appear in court today.

The 11-year-old male is to be summonsed to appear at a later date and the 15-year-old female is being considered for youth diversion.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Jordan said this is a great example of how effective the unit can be.



Media Contact:
Amy Sloan
8922 3365