Police say a group of very young suspects is behind an unusual call that came in around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.
A 911 caller reported that unknown subjects were trying to kick in her door. She described one of them as a girl with red hair. The caller added that three 10-year-old girls also spray-painted curse words across the back of her vehicle.
When officers arrived, they collected several items for evidence and later went to Thomas Avenue in an effort to speak with the children believed to be involved.
Why Crimes Involving Kids Are So Troubling
While no one was injured, incidents like this highlight a troubling reality: children are getting pulled into crime at younger and younger ages. Even when the offenses are classified as misdemeanors or property damage, the long-term risks are serious.
Experts point out that early delinquent behavior can:
- Escalate over time, moving from property damage to more serious offenses.
- Expose children to the justice system before they fully understand the consequences.
- Cause lasting harm to victims, who may feel unsafe in their own homes or see expensive damage to property.
What Can Be Done
Juvenile crime prevention often starts with the basics: supervision, community programs, and early intervention. Programs that focus on mentorship, after-school activities, and counseling can give kids better outlets than vandalism or intimidation.