Youths made to face up to actions

Police were called last November after a window was smashed at St Helen’s Church, Sandal. Police investigated and the offenders were identified as three teenage boys from the Hemsworth and South Elmsall areas.

This was the first time they had committed an offence and rather than being arrested, South East Neighbourhood Policing Team spoke to their parents and agreed that they would be tasked with raising money to pay for the damage.

They did this by saving their pocket money for a year.

Police recently presented the Revd Rupert Martin with £78.74 to cover the cost of the repair.

Insp Jackie Turton, of South East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This was a first offence for these youths and rather than criminalising their actions, they have been made to face up to the consequences.

“They have spoken to the victim of this crime and understand the impact of their actions and have tried to put right what they have done.

“None of them have committed offences since.”