Police arrest 14-year-old boy after windows were shattered at Hetton bus interchange

Police have confirmed that a 14-year-old boy has been arrested after they received a report of criminal damage at Hetton Interchange at around 5am on Tuesday, January 19.

It is understood that 18 windows at the terminus had been smashed overnight and the teenager has since been released on bail.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “On Tuesday at around 5am we received a report of criminal damage at Hetton Interchange.

“It was reported a number of windows at the terminus had been smashed at some point overnight.

“An investigation was launched and officers arrested a 14-year-old male in connection with the incident. He has since been released on bail.”

A rise in anti-social behaviour in both Houghton and Hetton prompted Northumbria Police to launch Operation Avalanche in January last year – with officers deeming it to be success yesterday (January 21).

The force say that anti-social behaviour reports have dropped by up to 30% and youth disorder specifically has almost halved in the areas.

Police also revealed that more than 50 teenagers have been dealt with by home visits to suspects and their parents, with some persistent offenders reported for public order offences.

Independent Councillor David Geddis has highlighted what impact the incidents are having on the town.

Cllr David Geddis commented: "There’s just a lack of respect from the kids and the teenagers and they’re destroying their own town – really destroying it.

"We’ve got people now investing in private security and cameras because they are so worried.”

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