(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

committee to determine how kids can make amends

13 teens in Sylvan Lake referred to Youth Justice Committee for vandalism spree

Oct 28, 2021 | 3:59 PM

RCMP in Sylvan Lake have identified 13 youths in connection to an investigation that was spurred by multiple vandalism complaints.

The detachment says those youths, who are between the ages of 13 and 17, have been referred to the Youth Justice Committee (YJC), an alternative to the court system.

Complaints came in during October, police say. The vandalism affected local area businesses and community agencies. The youths were identified using video surveillance, they add.

According to Sylvan Lake RCMP, the YJC involves trained community members who meet with people who have been harmed by offences, as well as the young people and their parents or caregivers. Those involved determine an appropriate and meaningful way for the youth(s) to make amends.

“We recognize the impact this crime spree has had on businesses and citizens of our community and the significant costs associated to make repairs, says Sgt. Stephanie Lesyk. “The Sylvan Lake RCMP working in partnership with our community led to a successful outcome in these cases.”

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In accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the names of the youths will not be released.

RCMP reiterate that video surveillance played a key role in this investigation, and are encouraging businesses to consider registering for the CAPTURE program at crimecapture.ca.