Graffiti youths caught by cameras

Four youths responsible for a graffiti spree in Newcastle have been caught in a police surveillance operation.

The teenagers, aged 14 and 15, were arrested after police monitored a wall in Fenham with CCTV cameras for up to four months.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said 95 cases of criminal damage had been linked to the youths.

They are now being forced to paint over the vandalism after signing Acceptable Behaviour Agreements (ABAs).

Insp Don Wade said the camera was set up at the end of last year after a string of complaints from residents about graffiti in the Wingrove Avenue area, including damage to a local cemetery.

Police warnings

He said: "This damage has caused great distress and frustration, not just to individuals, but to the whole community, and had made the area into a bit of an eyesore.

"Each youth and their parents are now under no illusion that further offences may lead to court appearances and their landlords seeking their eviction.

"The fact that they're now being made to clean it up means the area will soon be back as it should be."

The teenagers have also been issued with final police warnings.

Officers worked on the operation with local councillors, Newcastle City Council and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.