Residents in a Liverpool neighbourhood say they are living in fear as gangs of children, some as young as six, roam the streets with knives, break into homes, set fires, and hurl racist and homophobic abuse. Locals in Garston-under-the-bridge describe the area as 'lawless' and say they have become prisoners in their own homes, too scared to speak out for fear of retaliation.
One woman told the Liverpool Echo: 'If you say anything, they threaten to fire bomb your house. Every time they get away with something, they step it up a level. We are all terrified of what is coming with Bonfire Night and Mizzy Night.' She said children climb over police cars, trespass into homes, and taunt residents through doorbell cameras, adding: 'They don't fear getting caught because they know nothing will happen. One of them is six and is hanging round with older teenagers. It is like they are being groomed.'
Another resident, who is preparing to move out, said: 'We have had these kids trying to boot our door down and trying to smash our windows in. Some of these are kids younger than 10. I have never been terrified of children before.' Councillors Sam Gorst and Lucy Williams, of the Liverpool Community Independents, said residents are being 'tormented' by escalating crime. Cllr Gorst criticised the police for failing to enforce proportionate penalties and called for more visible policing and rapid responses in known hotspots.
Merseyside Police Superintendent Charlotte Irlam acknowledged a rise in anti-social behaviour but said officers are working with partner agencies to tackle the problem. She confirmed a youth was recently arrested for harassment and released on bail, while another will be interviewed over assault allegations. Officers have issued tickets, explored warrants, and warned several young people under Acceptable Behaviour Contracts. Irlam added that diversionary activities, including boxing sessions, are being offered, and CCTV installation is being considered.
She urged residents to report incidents, saying: 'We rely on those affected to report their experiences. Every single ASB incident is reviewed by the Neighbourhood Team to ensure we have the most up-to-date community intelligence.' The force has also partnered with Crimestoppers to offer anonymous reporting.
