Two Tallinn teenagers arrested for ten burglaries and break-ins
Police detained a 16-year-old and identified a 13-year-old boy who broke into shops and restaurants in North Tallinn and the city centre.
Tallinn shop burglaries: police catch two underage boys
According to Google News EE — Crime (et), police officers detained a 16-year-old youth this week and identified a 13-year-old boy who, since the end of August, have broken into several Tallinn shops and food establishments, damaged property and stolen money and valuables.
Lea Bärenson, head of the West-Harju Police Department, explained that the teenagers operated primarily in the North Tallinn and city centre areas. "The teenagers broke into shops and restaurants mainly, smashing their doors and windows. Everything the youngsters could easily carry fell prey to them, such as cash and small electronics, but they also stole electric scooters. In addition, the young people smashed the windows of several vehicles in the North Tallinn area," said Bärenson.
Police began searching for the teenagers immediately after the first report of theft. Evidence was gathered from crime scenes, statements were taken from victims and witnesses, and security camera recordings were reviewed. In addition, police officers kept a closer watch on the described areas.
On 1 September, police officers identified both young men in North Tallinn. The 16-year-old was detained on the spot. The 13-year-old ran away when he saw the police officers — a drone was used to find him and he was discovered at a nearby construction site.
According to Bärenson, the boys are linked to approximately ten theft incidents and several break-ins. "We have established that there were five young people in the group in total, and we are investigating what role each of them played in the offences," she added. The extent of the material damage caused and the exact number of incidents will become clear during the investigation.
Bärenson emphasised that prompt reporting is of crucial importance in such cases. "The faster the information reaches the police, the faster we can intervene. Also, the police should be notified if you notice anything suspicious in the street scene — for example, young people wandering around late at night who are trying to gain access to buildings or unfamiliar territory."
Both identified teenagers have previous contact with police. When dealing with underage offenders, efforts are made to find appropriate means of influence suitable for the child, and where necessary, a child welfare specialist is informed. In this case, the court has been asked to refer the 13-year-old boy to a closed children's facility, but a decision has not yet been made. The prosecutor's office requested the arrest of the 16-year-old, which the court did not approve.
Bärenson emphasised that placement in a closed institution is a last resort. "Our goal is for the child to receive the necessary support to break out of a bad circle. Our work does not end with detaining the young people — we continue to work with them, communicating with parents and partners. Helping a young person who has gone astray requires systematic engagement with them, and this requires close cooperation between the family, local authorities, the school and other specialists."
Source: Google News EE — Crime (et)