Semilong Neighbourhood Watch
Community Messages
[NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COMMUNITY MESSAGING - Northamptonshire West - 27.01.10 - WB/CMS/2277/09 - ALL NHW]
This is a message from Northamptonshire West Police to all members of Neighbourhood Watch in Northamptonshire.
An alternative approach to dealing with youth crime is being employed by Northamptonshire Police through the introduction of Youth Restorative Disposals (YRD).
YRDs contain a 'restorative justice' element and will assist officers in providing a quick and appropriate response to low-level crime and neighbourhood disorder to young people aged 10 to 17 inclusive.
Where this approach differs to those previously employed, is that it directly engages with all parties - victims, offenders and families - to resolve an offence in a manner that is meaningful.
This discretionary power, which is available to police officers, allows for immediate action to be taken, for minor first time offences.
The basis for introducing YRDs lies with implementing an approach that prevents young people from being disproportionately criminalised for a first time offence, can additionally help reduce the chances of them re-offending and help them gain an understanding of the implications of their behaviour.
It also increases the publics involvement in resolving an issue that they are directly affected by, thereby helping to improve their confidence in the justice system.
Superintendent Peter Glover, Head of the Criminal Justice Department, said: "We are currently in the process of training our officers to deliver Youth Restorative Disposals. We believe that this approach is not only helpful in allowing for a quicker and more efficient use of the criminal justice system, but can also help prevent against unnecessary court appearances, reduce bureaucracy and public expense.
"It is also beneficial in increasing the amount of time our officers spend on the street dealing with other issues.
"Most importantly perhaps, it allows the victim an opportunity to be involved in the resolution process which can help them deal with the incident better.
"Equally it allows the offender to see the human impact of their actions, which can help to rehabilitate the offending behaviour.
"Using YRDs does not mean that an offence is not considered a crime. The offender must admit to having committed the offence, which will be recorded as a crime. The only difference being, is in how that crime is resolved for the benefit of all those involved."
Ref: WB/CMS/2277/09
**Northamptonshire Police Contact Details**
Emergency: 999
Dedicated Watch Line: 01604 XXXXXXX
Northamptonshire Police Switchboard: 101
Alternatively Call Crime Stoppers Anonymously: 0800 555 111 |
