Public disorder incident in Downpatrick at Flying Horse
A police officer was injured in the incident and a police car was damaged following disorder in the Flying Horse Estate in Downpatrick on Friday 9th September.
The officer required hospital treatment for a head injury after being struck by a bottle during the disorder on Friday night which lasted for a number of hours into the early hours of Saturday morning.
Masonry, bottles and petrol bombs were thrown at officers and police vehicles by a group of up to 30 young persons, with one car having the front windscreen smashed.
Inspector Steven Weatherald said: “We are aware of the ongoing problem of anti-social behaviour in the estate
“And we are committed to working with other agencies, elected representatives and the community to tackle this problem.
“This is not something that can be addressed by police alone. Much more can be achieved if everyone in the community works together.
“Those who are involved in this type of activity may only be a small minority, but they are upsetting their own community by continuing to engage in such behaviour.“
Inspector Weatherald appealed to parents in the area to be aware of where their children are, and what they are up to.
He said: “The behaviour of your child may be making the life of your neighbour, or another member of your community, almost unbearable.
“We all bear a responsibility to work together and make this community a safer place in which to live, and those who hold positions of responsibility and influence are asked to help.
“Officers will continue to provide a visible policing presence in the estate and I would encourage you to report any and all incidents of anti-social behaviour in your community.
“The more we know, the more we can do to support people and take positive action. You can contact officers in Downpatrick on the non-emergency number 101.”
Anti-social behaviour a growing concern says Mason
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said the level of anti-social behaviour in Downpatrick is deeply concerning
Following a meeting with local residents, the South Down MLA said: “I met with local residents once again around the anti-social behaviour in the Flying Horse and Model Farm area of Downpatrick.
“It’s clear that the level of disruption is becoming unbearable for those living in the area. Many affected are older residents living on their own.
“It is simply unacceptable that elderly these residents are left feeling like prisoners in their own home, scared of what is going to happen once night falls.
“We must see tougher action taken by the PSNI to bring an end to this behaviour and parents must be aware of where their children are and what they’re up to when they leave the house in the evening.
“One resident, who has lived in the Model Farm for more than 40 years, says they have always been content in the area. But that due to the most recent incidents, they ‘would leave in the morning if they could.’
“These residents are unable to leave their windows open, put clothes on the washing line or sit out in the garden in peace.
“People should be able to live safely in their community, especially in their own homes.
