Two teenagers will appear in the Hastings Youth Court today after a spate of vandalism in the area. Photo / iStock
Two teenagers will appear in the Hastings Youth Court today after a spate of vandalism in the area. Photo / iStock
Prank calls led to the arrest of two teenagers believed to be behind vandalism that costs thousands of dollars in the Hawkes Bay.
Police had a number of calls about vandalism on properties throughout the Havelock North, Whakatu and Clive areas last week.
"These apparent random attacks involved rocks beingthrown through residents' windows, causing thousands of dollars' worth of damage, as well as frightening the nine victims, many of whom were elderly or families with young children, who were understandably left shaken and scared," said Senior Sergeant Luke Shadbolt.
Many prank calls were also made to fire and ambulance services, including claims there was a house fire in Clive.
Shadbolt said the officers pieced together the information, traced the calls and tracked down the alleged offenders.
"Thanks to the combination of good police work by frontline staff and the support of the communications centre, the two teenage offenders were soon found and arrested at a nearby motel that night," Shadbolt said.
"Overall it was an excellent team effort to help these vulnerable victims."
Shadbolt said police wanted residents to feel safe and be safe.
