Teenagers who broke into Tallinn shops identified – approximately 10 theft incidents
Police detained two young men who broke into shops and restaurants in Tallinn and stole money and electronic equipment.
Police apprehended juveniles committing series of thefts in Tallinn
According to Google News EE — Crime (et), police officers detained a 16-year-old and identified a 13-year-old youth during the week who, over recent weeks, have broken into numerous shops and food establishments in Tallinn, damaged property and stolen cash and valuable items.
Lea Bärenson, head of the West-Harju police district, said the boys had been active since the end of August, particularly in the North Tallinn and City Centre areas. According to information gathered so far, the youths primarily broke into shops and restaurants, smashing their doors and windows. "The youths' haul consisted of everything that was easy to carry away, such as cash and small electronics, but they also stole electric scooters. In addition, the youths smashed the windows of several vehicles in the North Tallinn area," Bärenson explained.
Police began searching for the youths immediately after the first theft was reported. Evidence was collected from crime scenes, statements were taken from victims and witnesses, and surveillance camera recordings were reviewed. Additionally, police officers maintained a closer watch over the described areas.
As a result of incident analysis and mapping of the youths' possible movement routes, police initially reached two boys. "On 1 September, police officers identified young men moving together in North Tallinn and detained a 16-year-old boy. When the boy saw the police, the 13-year-old boy accompanying him ran away, and a drone was used to search for him. After some time, police officers found him at a nearby construction site," Bärenson described.
According to information gathered so far, the boys are linked to approximately 10 theft episodes and several instances of damage. According to Bärenson, there were five youths in the group in total, and the investigation will clarify each person's role in the offences. The material damage caused will also be determined during the proceedings.
Bärenson emphasised how important it is for police to be informed about an incident at the earliest opportunity and for any available camera recordings and other evidence to be passed on. "The faster information reaches the police, the faster we can intervene. Similarly, police should be notified if you notice anything suspicious in the street scene, such as young people wandering about at a late hour who are attempting to gain access to buildings."
Both identified youths have previous contact with police. Bärenson explained that in resolving cases of juvenile offences, specific measures are sought that would help influence the particular child, help them change their behaviour and understand the consequences of their actions. If necessary, the child welfare specialist is informed, who clarifies the family's need for assistance and offers appropriate support.
In this case, the court has been asked to direct the 13-year-old boy to a closed children's facility service, but no decision has been made yet. The prosecutor requested the arrest of the 16-year-old youth, which the court did not accept.
According to Bärenson, directing a juvenile to a closed facility is the last resort. "Our aim is for the child to receive the necessary support to break out of a bad environment. Unfortunately, however, changing the behaviour of some children requires a more tightly controlled environment." According to the police district head, work continues with the youths and their parents after detention to find solutions to prevent further offences. Helping a young person who has gone astray requires close cooperation between the family, local government, school and other specialists.
Source: Google News EE — Crime (et)