CRAIG Hoy, a Conservative MSP for South Scotland, has raised concerns about anti-social behaviour in Peebles.
This follows several attacks by a group of five youths in the town over the past week against a middle-aged couple who were attacked at night; an elderly man who had his car window smashed and was then attacked; and schoolgirls who were kicked in the face and video recorded.
Concerns were raised to Police by Craig Hoy MSP, David Mundell MP, the Chair of Peebles and District Community Council, Tweeddale East Councillor Julie Pirone, and residents from the town.
In response to the concerns, Police have confirmed that the main suspect of the attacks has been charged and that the four other members of the group have been traced with statements and charges issued as appropriate, with charges being brought forward thanks to CCTV footage provided by local residents.
Commenting on the situation, Craig Hoy MSP said: “Many residents of Peebles have recently raised concerns about the response to the group of youths who committed a series of anti-social attacks throughout the town, and I am urgently seeking a meeting with the Borders Police Chief Inspector to confirm that there is a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour.
“It is pertinent that residents of the community can safely enjoy local green space, that no repeat of these incidents will take place and that the group answer for their crimes.
“I am encouraged that the Police will have additional patrols in the Peebles area on Friday and Saturday nights to address disorder with a focus on unlicensed premises.
“While it is important that residents receive assurance that these incidents will not happen again, it is important to note that these five individuals represent a small section of the youth population in Peebles, the vast majority of whom are sensible and do not commit crimes.”
Craig Hoy will also step up pressure for more Police resourcing for the Scottish Borders.
He said: “Our Police do a commendable job with increasingly scarce resources. After years of SNP cuts and the loss of frontline police it is clear that officers are spread too thinly in towns and villages across the Borders. At Holyrood I will press the Scottish Government for fairer funding for police in our area.”
