Councils consider balaclava restrictions to tackle youth crime

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 29 Oct, 10:45 · Archive

Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland Councils are drawing up public space protection orders targeting balaclava-wearing youths.

Cleveland Police have acknowledged that balaclava-wearing youths cause 'fear and alarm' and are described as a 'blight on our neighbourhoods'. The force says it is working with partner organisations on interventions. Both Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland Councils are drawing up public space protection orders (PSPOs) targeting balaclava use. Anyone who refuses to comply with being asked to remove one could face a fine or be prosecuted through the courts.

Redcar councillor Peter Grogan has submitted a successful council motion seeking a complete ban on balaclavas. He has asked police and the local crime commissioner for their views and is encouraging local MPs to raise the matter with the Government.

Last month Nottingham became one of the first cities in the UK to introduce restrictions on balaclavas. Police and community protection officers there can ask people to remove them if they 'reasonably believe' they are being used to conceal identity to commit crime or anti-social behaviour. Non-compliance can result in a £70 fixed penalty notice or prosecution with fines rising to £1,000. Nottingham police said the problem was 'substantial' and 'predominantly involved very young people, normally young males wearing balaclavas' involved in drug dealing and carrying weapons. Legitimate face coverings for religious, cultural, health, work, weather or personal safety reasons are exempted.

How it is being reported

• Police say balaclava-clad youths are a 'blight' as councils consider crackdownCleveland Police have acknowledged that balaclava wearing youths are a “blight on our neighbourhoods” and say they are working collaboratively with partner organisations to tackle the issue.The Northern Echo · 29 Oct, 10:20
• Balaclava wearing youths are 'blight on our neighbourhoods' that can cause 'fear and alarm'Cleveland Police said it would work with council partners on any proposed interventionsTeessideLive · 29 Oct, 00:01

In this story: Cleveland Police · Middlesbrough · Redcar and Cleveland · Peter Grogan · Nottingham · Daryll Tomlinson

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