Blackwood, Wales, faces rising youth crime, with kids as young as 10 carrying knives
Blackwood: A small town in Wales is facing a troubling situation. Gangs of young kids are causing fear among residents. They’re involved in vandalism and carrying knives, which is alarming for the community.
Locals report seeing groups of up to 20 kids, mostly under 18. This has made some elderly residents feel unsafe. The situation escalated when one teen was chased with a knife, prompting a council meeting with police.
During the emergency meeting, the deputy mayor compared Blackwood to the Bronx. However, the meeting was disrupted by the very kids causing the trouble. They refused to leave until police arrived.
Deputy mayor George Etheridge expressed concern about the anti-social behavior. He mentioned issues at the bus station, where kids ride e-scooters and bikes, intimidating people.
Town councillor Andrew Short shared that many elderly and disabled residents avoid the bus station due to harassment. One man even faced threats when trying to confront the kids.
Police are working to address the ongoing issues. A council spokesperson said recent comparisons to the Bronx were unfair. They acknowledged the concerns and are actively tackling the problems.
On January 23, 2025, councillors met with police to discuss residents’ worries. They are implementing a plan to reduce incidents and improve community safety.
Despite challenges, the town’s spirit remains strong. Residents and local businesses are determined to keep Blackwood vibrant and welcoming.
