A BRAVE single mother trying to protect her young children has been forced to confront a brazen teenage gang after they allegedly invaded her property last week.
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Turvey Park resident Rachael Miller became the latest victim in Wagga’s youth crime stranglehold when a “kiddie-gang” broke into her property and terrified her kids late Thursday night.
Ms Miller, who looks after three primary school students by herself, told The Daily Advertiser she fears the spate of break-ins will lead to someone being killed or seriously injured.
“It was four kids against one mother trying to protect her own children,” she said.
“If they had of gotten in and had the hell kicked out of them, I can guarantee I'd be charged for assaulting a minor.
“When it comes to protecting your kids from stuff like that, you don't think of the consequences, you just think of removing the threat and protecting your children.”
Police later that night pursued four young men aged between 10 and 14, believed to be responsible for the incident, and apprehended them near Riverina’s TAFE.
The entire group will be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.
“They obviously have no fear these days, it’s getting beyond a joke,” Ms Miller said.
Neighbourhood Watch founding member Wayne Deaner said it is time for the parents of offending teens to be held partially accountable for their crimes.
“The frustration factor among the community is reaching an all-time high, people are getting wound up and it’s only a matter of time before something terrible happens,” he said.
“We need to take a stand and hold the parents, who are letting their children roam the streets late at night, partially accountable.
“It also shows we need greater education because we need to find a way to get through to these kids.
“This issue isn’t going to fade otherwise.”
It comes after Wagga police Detective Inspector Darren Cloake told The Daily Advertiser young people were responsible for the majority of recent street and property crimes across the city.
He has since predicted approximately one in five of Wagga’s crimes are being committed by young people.
The recent resurgence of youth crime comes in wake of the successful efforts of Operation Assure, which saw a dramatic drop in theft, arson and property offences.