The Youth Crime Unit made 37 arrests and summonsed multiple others throughout its school holiday Operation Compadre, which came to an end last week.

Operation Compadre was conducted from Thursday 10 December 2009 until Wednesday 20 January 2010 to cover the Christmas school holiday period where there is a perceived increase in property crime and anti-social behaviour amongst youths.

During this period Youth Crime Unit members with divisional support have pro-actively targeted crime hot-spots and known areas of concern.

During the operation, 37 arrests have been made, 13 summons files submitted and five youths recommended for diversion. There have also been five vehicles seized under the anti-hooning legislation.

One of the most recent and significant arrests was those that resulted in the recovery of approximately $8 000 of stolen property from recent unlawful entries in the city last weekend.

Acting Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Mosel said he was pleased with the actions of the Youth Crime Unit in helping to prevent property crime and apprehend offenders.

"Unfortunately there always seems to be a number of youth who decide to break the law and participate in criminal behaviour.

"Special operations such as Compadre are another tool police are using to minimise this crime and to apprehend those who decide to do the wrong thing.

"We greatly value the public's assistances in tackling youth crime by reporting suspicious activity and offences swiftly to police," A/Snr Sergeant Mosel said.

The Youth Crime Unit will continue to maintain a no tolerance approach to property crime and anti-social behaviour amongst youths throughout the school terms.

A/Snr Sergeant Mosel urges anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity to call police on 131 444, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.nt.crimestoppers.com.au/ or the Anti-Social Behaviour Hotline on 1800 272 111.


Media contact:
Amy Sloan
8922 3531