Three teenagers have been charged with acts of anti-social behaviour in an Aberdeenshire village.
Following complaints from residents in Oldmeldrum, the boys – two aged 13 and one 15 – were charged with numerous offences, including vandalism and theft over the past two months.
Inspector Jamie Harrison, of the Formartine Community Policing Team, said patrols had increased and the force was working with the community.
He said: “At a recent community council meeting there was a large turnout of local residents who voiced their concerns regarding recent antisocial behaviour.”
“Police action so far has involved increasing patrols in the area and from the incidents reported to us so far, officers have fully investigated each occurrence with the result that three youths have been charged and reported in relation to their actions.
“Meldrum Academy are speaking to pupils and educational inputs have been given by local officers about what is antisocial behaviour and how seriously we take it.
“Youth antisocial behaviour affects the quality of life for local residents and can have a wider impact on their health and wellbeing.
“Police Scotland will not tolerate such actions and those who choose to commit antisocial behaviour will have to face the consequences of their decision.”
Andrew McCartney, chair of Meldrum, Bourtie and Daviot community council, said it welcomed the action police had taken.
“We would also like to hear from members of the community interested in implementing neighbourhood watch schemes to further ensure that this community remains a safe and enjoyable place to live,” he said.