Male arrested after Catapult use

🚔 Quick Work by Officers in Stanhope, Ashford 🚔

Police were called to reports of a youth using a catapult to fire ball bearings at passing vehicles along Stanhope Road, Ashford. One projectile struck and damaged a vehicle windscreen while it was being driven, creating a significant risk to the driver and other road users.

Officers attended immediately and, within 15 minutes, located and arrested the suspect. He was found in possession of a catapult and ball bearings, as well as cannabis. During the encounter, he also attempted to resist officers during a search and was further arrested for obstruction, after being physically restrained.

Our local officers are well aware of the impact that catapults have on the community. When used in this way catapults can cause serious injury, damage, and distress. We work hard to identify, locate, and apprehend those who choose to use them illegally and put others at risk, and this arrest is a good example of that ongoing commitment.

After a brief period where the reality of the situation appeared to sink in (and a few tears were shed), the suspect was taken into custody, where he now has plenty of time to reflect on what can only be described as a series of poor decisions.

A reminder that firing objects at moving vehicles is extremely dangerous and carries serious consequences. Thankfully, on this occasion, officers were able to act quickly and locate the offender before anyone was seriously injured.

It turns out that testing your aim on passing cars is a fast-track route to a custody cell, not sporting glory. 🎯🚔

Thank you to those who reported the incident promptly and provided information that assisted officers in bringing the matter to a swift conclusion.