The Hawkesbury Gazette Facebook page came alive with debate this week when discussing “riff raff’, or troublesome youths hanging around the Richmond CBD.
The topic arose following a letter the paper received from a local mother who said she had witnessed disturbing behaviour from youths getting on and off the train when she takes her daughter to the station for school each morning.
“As I have been waiting I have witnessed so many youths, some look as young as 10 hanging around the train station and McDonalds, causing issues with locals and other young youths,” the woman said.
The Gazette ran an online poll on the issue, asking readers if they felt safe when visiting the Richmond railway station precinct.
Nearly 1000 votes were recorded as of yesterday, 289 of those said yes, 681 said no.
Gazette followers on Facebook voiced their views on the issue with many sharing different opinions and solutions.
“These kids are bored, their parents likely don't care or can't be bothered raising them. I don't even like driving around that intersection let alone walk with my children.” – Nicole Lonsdale
“So need a youth centre ... they are probably bored they need a hangout.” – Carelle Manion
Hawkesbury Police Detective Inspector Gavin Rattenbury urged community members to report any anti-social behaviour.
“Hawkesbury LAC police regularly patrol train stations (including Richmond) and similar areas where youth or others are congregating and causing concern,” Det Insp Rattenbury said.
“We will also undertake specific operations in order to target Anti-Social activity or other crime when required.
“Hawkesbury LAC will also utilise other resources to address issues including the Police Transport Command, who also regularly patrol the train lines and stations.
“We do maintain a strong presence along the rail corridor and we rely on information from the community and from our intelligence to prioritise our deployment.”
Detective Inspector Rattenbury said local police do undertake Truancy operations and do not tolerate any crimes or illegal bahaviour in the community.
“The Richmond McDonalds and Train Station is at a transport hub and consequently this area is frequented by many people including young persons.
“Police will respond to anti-social behaviour or other crimes at the area but must also be aware of it. “That said, to act we must detect a crime and can't just move people out of an area unless certain criteria is met.”