Children punished after 'using catapults to target wildlife' in Waterlooville and 'distress' the public
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One of the children tried to run away from police but was caught
Three youths were caught by police after they were seen firing projectiles at pigeons using a catapult.
Officers from the Waterlooville Neighbourhood Policing Team “flooded” Springwood Avenue and “tracked down three suspects”, a social media statement said. The force added that they received reports of “youths using catapults to target wildlife and distress local residents”.
One of the children tried to flee the scene, but was caught after a short foot chase. A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesperson said they were called at 4.30pm on May 17, with the youths “making threats to fire ball bearings at pigeons and members of the public with a catapult”.
Two 13-year-old boys and one 14-year-old girl were found in a nearby wooded area, detained, and searched. The catapult was found nearby after being thrown away.
“They were subsequently taken home and police spoke with their respective parents about the incident,” the spokesperson said. “We continue to encourage anyone who sees someone causing harm to local wildlife, or using a catapult in a public place to report this to police. If a crime is in progress, dial 999.”
The Waterlooville Police social media statement added: “Our local wildlife and community spaces deserve respect. If you see anti-social behaviour in our parks, keep reporting it to us so we can act fast.”