02/10/2026
Urban Explorers - Caught Green Fingered!
Offences lower in severity can sometimes be dealt with without going to court, one of these outcomes is called Community Resolution.
This might be used for a less serious assault where there was little or no physical harm caused, a low value theft or minor damages being caused.
If the suspect is eligible for this type of outcome (generally being a first-time offender) we’ll discuss if a Community Resolution is acceptable to the victim.
In some instances, the offender might be asked to pay for damages, write a letter of apology or complete some type of educational program if alcohol or substance abuse was a contributing factor.
It’s a very useful tool as it allows to the offender to take responsibly for their actions and gives them the opportunity to reconsider their behaviour. It also means the victim can often get an outcome promptly rather than waiting for their incident being heard at court.
This type of police action can also be used for youth offenders – allowing a young person to be diverted away from criminality in the future, avoiding a criminal record (again, for first time offences).
Recently, this type of criminal disposal has been used for two youths who were identified as ‘Urban Exploring’ in RBS Bank after hours.
“AHH, TRESPASS IS A CIVIL OFFENCE” I hear you cry!
Well, when you enter as a trespasser and cause damage within (even if the damage is minimal), that’s Burglary.
So, what did they have to do?
On this occasion, education was key and considered much more valuable than prosecution.
Having recently seen some awful damages caused to the Phoebe Hoskins Trust memorial garden at Derriford Hospital, the Officer thought this could be a great way in helping to educate these young people and help a local charity at the same time.
Both youths as well as the Officer arranging this work (Off Duty) have attended the Memorial Garden and helped repair some of the damages caused, clear overgrown vegetation and sweep the access areas allowing people with a range of mobility issues being able to use this special little area of the hospital.
Who knew there was such art to pruning rose bushes!
During the afternoon, both youths were spoken to about how the actions of some can affect others, showing firsthand the devastation and upset that reckless and inconsiderate behaviour can have.
This type of work goes on every day across our city, often going unnoticed as it’s not grabbing headlines but can be invaluable in preventing further offending.
If you’d like to read about the Phoebe Hoskin Trust or help volunteer in the upkeep of the gardens, click here - https://orlo.uk/AIBm3
