Police criminalising young to hit targets, says charity / Guardian, 3 April 2008
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2008/apr/03/youngpeople?gusrc=rss&feed=uknews
"· Detection rate drive behind 39% rise in minor offences
· Tougher action replacing ticking-off for young teens
A police drive aimed at thousands of low-level teenage offenders lies behind an apparent surge in youth crime figures, according to an analysis published [by the charity, Nacro]. Police figures suggest reported minor offences by young people soared by 38.9% from 2003-2006, and detected serious offences rose by 19%."
Nacro Press Release: Some facts about children and young people who offend / Nacro, 3 April 2008
http://www.nacro.org.uk/templates/news/newsItem.cfm/2008040300.htm
[Full report available fromm Nacro, tel: 020 7840 7216]