Cleveland Police have issued an urgent appeal to parents following a weekend of “wholly unacceptable” anti-social behavior that saw chaos erupt across Hartlepool.
Authorities were forced to implement two 48-hour dispersal orders after approximately 100 youths gathered in Ward Jackson Park on Saturday night. During the disturbance, fireworks were set off in the park, and officers reported that eggs were hurled at them as they attempted to restore order. Despite being moved on, the group attempted to regroup at Rossmere Park, which was already under a dispersal order due to recent reports of disorder.
The violence has left residents living in fear, with reports of fireworks being launched toward residential properties, including a local care home. Shocking thermal imaging footage captured on Friday, October 2, in the Bishop Cuthbert area has now been released, revealing dozens of youths running through the park and throwing fireworks near busy roads.
Hartlepool Neighbourhoods Inspector Adrian Dack condemned the actions, stating: “Last night’s incidents were wholly unacceptable and we will not tolerate this behaviour anywhere in our town. Our parks are for everyone to enjoy, but such intimidating behaviour makes many residents feel uneasy about using these green spaces. Sadly, we’ve also seen repeated criminal damage in these community facilities which will be costly to repair.”
The weekend’s disorder followed reports on Friday of a large group of youngsters gathering in Bishop Cuthbert Park for what was described as a “pre-planned fight.” Across town, visitors to Rossmere Park have been left intimidated by the noise, disorder, and general criminality.
In response, Cleveland Police are working alongside local schools, the local authority, and elected officials to identify those responsible. Officers are scheduled to visit schools this week to educate students on the dangers of anti-social behavior and the severe consequences of criminal damage.
Inspector Dack issued a direct challenge to parents, asking: “Do you know where your children are? Parents and carers have a role to play too – once again I’d urge them to speak to their children about what is and what isn’t acceptable behaviour, the dangers of handling and throwing fireworks and the consequences having contact with police for ASB and criminal damage could have on their future.”
The call for parental responsibility was echoed by the town’s MP, Jonathan Brash, who shared the police appeal on social media, adding: “Do you know where your children are? Because this is totally unacceptable.”
Dispersal orders for the Rossmere and Bishop Cuthbert areas remain in effect until Monday afternoon. Police are continuing their enquiries and have urged anyone with information regarding those involved in the recent incidents to come forward.
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