A 16-year-old boy has admitted a stolen JCB rampage that destroyed six new-build homes in Darlington. The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, stole a dumper truck on 27 April and rammed it into several unoccupied houses on Hurworth Moor, causing extensive damage.
Days later, on 2 May, he stole another dumper truck from a housing estate in Middleton St George but was arrested within 15 minutes after police arrived at the scene. He was subsequently charged with criminal damage, driving without insurance, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and two counts of aggravated vehicle taking.
Appearing at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Friday 6 June, the boy pleaded guilty to all offences. He is due to be sentenced on 27 June.
Chief Inspector Jim O’Connor, from Darlington Police, described the actions as “utterly mindless vandalism” that caused extensive damage to much-needed new homes. He added: “The boy is incredibly lucky not to have injured himself or other innocent members of the public during these incidents. His behaviour was completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
Councillor Matthew Roche, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and housing, said the Neasham Road site is part of an ambitious programme to build hundreds of council homes. He expressed devastation at the vandalism, noting there will be significant cost and a delay in completing the building work, meaning potential tenants will have to wait longer for their new homes.
