Officers thanked after Obridge damage arrests (From Somerset County Gazette)

Officers thanked after Obridge damage arrests

9:00pm Tuesday 7th August 2012 in News By Phil Hill

POLICE officers who helped solve a case of vandalism on allotments have been invited back to a barbecue by the victims.

Sgt Andy Murphy and Acting Sgt Jon O’Connor, assisted by tip-offs from witnesses, arrested a boy and two girls aged 12 to 14 for causing over £1,000 damage at the Obridge site.

The youths received a police reprimand – similar to an adult caution – after admitting smashing up nine greenhouses and sheds and kicking and throwing vegetables at each other during their rampage around the site.

Allotment holders thanked the two officers at the barbecue, organised by Vivien Winter, Sarah Donbavand and Debbie Denton and which raised £117 for Priorswood Allotment Association funds.

Acting Sgt Jon O’Connor said: “This was an act of mindless vandalism causing significant loss and inconvenience to a number of allotment holders which won’t be tolerated.

“I’d like to thank Knightstone residents who witnessed the incident and were so prompt in contacting the police leading to the arrests and clear-up of the case.

“I was very pleased to be invited to the barbecue and will continue to support and engage with community groups as part of my commitment across North Taunton."