A TEENAGER has been charged with multiple counts of shoplifting and criminal damage to cars following a police crackdown on antisocial behaviour in Wroughton.

The 14-year-old boy was arrested after officers started investigating reports of thefts and damage thought to have been caused by the same group of local youths.

He is due to appear before Swindon Youth Court on January 15 charged with five counts of theft from Tesco Express in the Ellendune Centre and five of causing damage to vehicles.

A second boy, the same age, has been cautioned for two thefts. A second 14-year-old has been cautioned for two theft incidents.

Local crime investigator James Purcell said: “We are aware of the recent spate of incidents involving youths in Wroughton and we have been working hard to identify those responsible.

“Last month, we interviewed several people in relation to the ongoing issues and were able to charge one youth for a number of offences.

“I understand that the behaviour of these individuals has had a huge impact on the local community and I am aware that some incidents may have gone unreported due to the victims being too scared to report them to police.

“We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and we will take action, despite the age of those involved.

“Our work doesn’t stop here however, and we will continue to target those who cause misery to their neighbourhood and will put those responsible before the courts. Our local officers and PCSOs will controlling patrolling the areas and engaging with residents so please do stop and chat to them if you have any concerns.”