In recent weeks, courts have been flooded with cases of young individuals being convicted for participating in civil disorder following the recent riots in England. One such case involved a 16-year-old boy who was convicted of violent disorder after he was caught hurling a rock at police from the steps of Bolton’s cenotaph. The boy, with no prior criminal record, was described in court as having no political views and being influenced by social media and the desire to belong to a group participating in the unrest.
Another case in Manchester involved a 12-year-old boy who admitted to violent disorder for taking part in two disturbances. The boy’s family attributed his behavior to his ADHD and impulsive tendencies. Despite the severity of the crimes committed, some judges opted to spare the youths detention and instead imposed community service or referral orders.
Experts warn against rushing to label these young offenders as racist or extremist, emphasizing the need to consider their backgrounds and circumstances. The cuts in youth services and lack of mental health support have left vulnerable young people exposed to criminal influences, reinforcing the need for investment in these areas for long-term solutions. While the immediate response to the civil disorder may involve punishment, a more holistic approach is required to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com
