Officers investigating reports of criminal damage in Ashford

Ashford residents are being warned following a number of calls that catapults are being used to damage property in the town.

Kent Police received eight reports between Monday 10 December and Wednesday 13 December 2018 that stones and rocks were being fired from catapults in Victoria Park, Green Fields Lane, Running Foxes Lane, Hoxton Close, Knoll Lane and Bucksford Lane.

During these incidents damage has been caused to windows and cars.

Officers investigating the criminal damage are urging residents to look out for anything suspicious and report any anti-social behaviour to police as quickly as possible.

Inspector Jason Atkinson from the Community Safety Unit in Ashford said: ‘Whilst it is not illegal to own a catapult and most people use them safely as toys, there is clearly a minority who are breaking the law by causing criminal damage and putting people’s safety at risk.

‘Luckily no one was hurt during any of these incidents, however we have had a report previously where someone has reported injuries caused by a group of people who were firing catapults. Firing stones at moving cars could also have unthinkable consequences.

‘Whilst we carry out our enquiries in the area we would also ask residents to be on their guard and continue to report any incidents to us immediately. We would like to thank those people who have come forward with information so far.

‘People intent on breaking the law should be aware that using catapults to harm others and damage property is illegal and will not be tolerated.’

Anyone with information or who wants to report an incident like this should call 101. Alternatively speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.

PSE 59727 Andrew Judd