Coronavirus: Police plead with Newtownabbey parents following further anti-social behaviour

Officers responded to anti-social behaviour across the district on Friday night, including teens damaging vehicles, starting fires and involved in underage drinking.

This followed anti-social incidents in the Mossley area on Thursday evening.

Speaking on Saturday, a PSNI spokesperson said: “Over the past two evenings we have had multiple reports of large groups of kids, teenagers acting in an irresponsible, anti-social and at times criminal fashion all over the district. It’s simply unacceptable.

“We have had fires started in Ballyclare, drinking in the Jordanstown and Mossley areas and property and vehicles damaged in Antrim and Glengormley. Reckless acts such as items being hurled at passing cars.

“We know that alcohol has been a factor in some of this offending. One 15-year-old boy picked up in the Shore Road area was so inebriated that he could barely stand and had to be conveyed home by police.

“Resources could be better utilised and I am sure these kids are hoping for a positive future and don’t want it to be blighted with a criminal record.

“Parents, I am pleading with you to know where your kids are and heed direction that has been given. Very clear direction and guidance. I know we are in challenging times, but it is time to take responsibility.”