Charges follow months of antisocial behaviour in Lowestoft town centre
Suffolk Police say anti-social behaviour can be so severe some people consider moving home.
Three teenagers have been charged following a series of antisocial behaviour incidents in Lowestoft town centre over recent months.
Suffolk Constabulary said the charges relate to activity involving groups of young people, with multiple reports made in the area.
A 16-year-old girl from Lowestoft has been charged with a number of offences, including harassment without violence, criminal damage, and repeated breaches of dispersal requirements and a community protection notice.
A 16-year-old boy has been charged with using threatening, abusive or insulting words likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
A 14-year-old boy has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, as well as harassment and criminal damage.
All three have been bailed with conditions and are due to appear at Norwich Youth Court on Thursday 14 May.
Impact on communities
Inspector Colin Clack said antisocial behaviour can have a significant impact on communities, particularly when incidents persist over time.
He said while cases can vary, police recognise the wider consequences, with more serious cases leading people to avoid certain areas or, in some instances, consider moving home.
Reporting and reassurance
Police are continuing to encourage residents to report concerns and engage with officers, including through the Suffolk Connected messaging system, which allows two-way communication between the public and police.
Inspector Clack said maintaining that dialogue helps officers respond effectively and provides reassurance to communities.