Police are searching for children involved in a weekend of disorder across Hartlepool, with officers trawling CCTV footage and warning parents their youngsters could end up with criminal records.
Cleveland Police has launched a crackdown following what officers described as an "appalling rampage" of antisocial behaviour across the town, which saw three dispersal orders imposed over Saturday and Sunday.
Thirteen children have already been slapped with formal antisocial behaviour notices, while officers are working with headteachers at every secondary school in Hartlepool to identify others suspected of being involved.
CCTV images are being circulated among schools and partner agencies as police attempt to track down those responsible, with officers warning that further action will follow once suspects have been identified.
One of the e-scooters believed to have been involved in the disorder (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
The dispersal orders gave police powers to immediately move on anyone involved in antisocial behaviour in designated areas. Those who returned within the 48 hours risked arrest.
And the crackdown has continued into the week, with two e-scooters seized in Ward Jackson Park on Monday night following further reports of trouble.
One child allegedly refused to follow police instructions and failed to stop for officers while riding an e-scooter. Police have confirmed the scooter will now be crushed.
Both children involved have been placed on diversionary educational courses and face prosecution if they fail to comply.
Neighbourhood Inspector Adrian Dack has now issued a stark warning to parents, making clear that children who continue causing trouble could face criminal proceedings, while tenancy enforcement action could also be pursued where appropriate.
One of the e-scooters believed to have been involved in the disorder (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
He said: "These notices are a formal warning to children identified as having been involved in antisocial behaviour. The details are recorded on police computer systems and subsequent behaviour will be monitored. Should any such behaviour be repeated, this can lead to further enforcement action and even criminal proceedings.
"I want the children, and especially their parents, to know that we are taking this appalling behaviour seriously. If this behaviour continues, the children run the risk of getting a criminal record which can seriously affect their future, and we will also seek tenancy enforcement where appropriate.
"If you want the best for your children, please speak to them about antisocial behaviour, how it affects people in our communities and the consequences of taking part in such behaviour."
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The inspector also warned that police would not tolerate gatherings descending into violence, criminal damage or disorder.
He added: "While police will facilitate a peaceful and lawful protest or gathering, any escalation of violence or criminality will be dealt with appropriately and robustly. We will not tolerate incidents where groups of people cause disorder, damage or harm to others.
"Patrols will continue in the town's parks and recreational grounds in the evenings."
Police say their efforts to identify those involved are continuing, with further enforcement action possible as officers work through CCTV evidence.