“Restorative Justice is an alternative to prosecution through the courts and provides an opportunity for the offenders to take ownership of their mistake and responsibility for their actions,” said Police Sergeant, James Taylor.
“Entering property without permission, taking items and causing criminal damage is a serious offence, Alderney Police will always look to take positive action in relation to such matters.”
What happened?
On 4 January Alderney Police were called to the Bute’s Centre. Somebody had entered the building and damaged the ceiling and caretaker’s equipment.
During an investigation led by PS Taylor, three youths were identified as the people responsible.
Instead of being taken through the court system, an agreement was made between the police and the victim to go down the route of restorative justice instead.
Each victim was made to write a letter of apology and pay £50 to the States of Alderney to go towards the cost of repairs.
Pictured: Each of the offenders wrote a letter of apology for their actions.
“Alderney Police officers are trained in restorative justice,” continued PS Taylor.
The three offenders also gave up their time to litter pick around the Butes building. Alderney Police said: “A record of the offence is held on file and should they offend again this can be taken into consideration”.