Crime amongst young people is on the increase. It means doing something that is against the law and can lead to serious consequences, such as a prison sentence. Fear of becoming the victim of crime is also on the increase and is often a contributing factor to young people getting involved in criminal behaviour. This often involves carrying knives or other weapons and becoming members of gangs for protection. This often creates further difficulties, as young gang members may be forced to engage in other forms of criminal behaviour such as taking or selling drugs, vandalism, shop lifting, burglary and physically assaulting members of the public or rival gangs.
Gangs put a lot of pressure on young people to join them. This often takes the form of bullying and threats, as well as promoting protection amongst team members. Young people often feel a sense of belonging when they join gangs. Unfortunately, they are also forced to take part in criminal behaviour with serious consequences. Young people can get physically hurt or arrested and end up in the criminal justice system.
If you are worried about getting in trouble or someone has committed a crime against you, you must tell someone straight way, whether a teacher, parent, carer or the police. There are also a number of community projects and voluntary organizations which provide information and support to young people. For example, they provide confidential advice on the personal and legal consequences of drug taking, possession and selling.
Schools are currently providing educational programmes and advice on these issues. It is important that you do not go through this on your own and that you approach someone for help.
No one can intentionally hurt you or put your life into danger. If someone commits a brutal crime against you, you should talk about it to someone. You might be a bit worrisome about getting in difficulty, but it's advisable to tell someone as soon as possible. You could confide in your parents or teachers or even go to the police. If someone is enforcing you to become a gang member you shouldn’t fall into the trap and discuss it with people close to you before taking such action.
