Published on 28/09/2006
By Nick Griffiths
Crime Reporter
POLICE have issued a formal warning to a Carlisle shop following an investigation into reports of teenagers throwing a firework under a van.
Officers spoke to bosses at the store after being told a youth responsible had bought fireworks there.
Police were called to Tait Street, off Botchergate, at 12.55pm on Tuesday.
Callers said they had seen teenagers throw a firework under a van. The van was not damaged. A teenager is being questioned over the incident.
Inspector Adrian Sowerby said the store, which has not been named, has now been warned about selling fireworks to under-age teenagers.
Supplying fireworks to under-18s can carry a maximum penalty of a £5,000 fine or six months in prison.
Retailers must check identification if there is any doubt about a customer being over 18.
It is against the law to carry fireworks in public if you are under 18. It is also illegal to throw or set off fireworks in the street.
Insp Sowerby warned against the misuse of fireworks, adding that police would prosecute offenders.
“We are getting to the time of the year when fireworks start to be sold in shops,� he said. “Fireworks should not be let off in public places, especially on the highway.
“We have the power to take action – to prosecute and to issue fixed penalty notices.
“Parents should take a responsible attitude. If they are going to buy fireworks they should leave it to nearer Bonfire Night.�
By Nick Griffiths
Crime Reporter
POLICE have issued a formal warning to a Carlisle shop following an investigation into reports of teenagers throwing a firework under a van.
Officers spoke to bosses at the store after being told a youth responsible had bought fireworks there.
Police were called to Tait Street, off Botchergate, at 12.55pm on Tuesday.
Callers said they had seen teenagers throw a firework under a van. The van was not damaged. A teenager is being questioned over the incident.
Inspector Adrian Sowerby said the store, which has not been named, has now been warned about selling fireworks to under-age teenagers.
Supplying fireworks to under-18s can carry a maximum penalty of a £5,000 fine or six months in prison.
Retailers must check identification if there is any doubt about a customer being over 18.
It is against the law to carry fireworks in public if you are under 18. It is also illegal to throw or set off fireworks in the street.
Insp Sowerby warned against the misuse of fireworks, adding that police would prosecute offenders.
“We are getting to the time of the year when fireworks start to be sold in shops,� he said. “Fireworks should not be let off in public places, especially on the highway.
“We have the power to take action – to prosecute and to issue fixed penalty notices.
“Parents should take a responsible attitude. If they are going to buy fireworks they should leave it to nearer Bonfire Night.�