Event raises awareness of dangers of car crime

Raising awareness of the dangers of car crime will help keep young people out of a cycle that could lead to prison, Criminal Justice Minister David Hanson MP said today.

The Minister was welcoming an event at Dungannon Courthouse today which will raise awareness amongst young people about the dangers and possible consequences of car crime, including careless driving. The event included a mock taking and driving away incident followed by a mock trial, which was watched by 100 local students.

David Hanson said: "Our young people must realise that if they become involved in car crime it could drastically change the course of their lives. Car crime will lead to a criminal record and possibly a prison sentence.

“This event is a timely reminder to everyone, especially our young people, that the dangers and consequences surrounding car crime are real. The biggest danger in getting involved in car crime is the carnage it leaves on the roads in Northern Ireland. My message is clear; never get involved in car crime.”

Commenting on the event, Sergeant Pamela Warwick, Community Safety, Dungannon and South Tyrone said: "We are pleased to be able to work alongside our colleagues within the NIO today and highlight the important messages of car crime to a vulnerable group within society.

"We have two key messages that we want to get out of today's event. The first is that speeding and drink driving are the biggest killers on our roads. It is hoped that this event will reduce deaths and serious injuries on the roads by making these young students stop and think about the seriousness of safety when driving and the consequences of taking a risk on the road.

"Secondly we want to make sure they don't get involved in car crime and by attending events such as this one today they can see the consequences of what happens if they do."

(JM/KMcA)