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This just doesn't affect me!So, what do you think about crime and law? Is it something that is 'done by' and 'happens to' other people? Are you 'good' boys and girls who do as they're told and never get into bother? Or do you fancy yourself as a bit of a 'gansta'? Either way, you need to stop and think carefully about crime and the consequences. |
Not the best defence I'm afraid! Everybody knows what it feels like when
you want something so much, you feel like you'd do anything to get it…..but
is it worth it? For example, if you are out in town with your mates and they're
all buying the latest games and CDs, you feel rubbish when you're out of
cash and can't join in. It might feel tempting to just slip something into
your bag without paying for it. But what if you get caught? Is having that
CD worth seeing the look on your parents face when they find out? Or what
about the embarrassment of being stopped by security in front of a shop full
of people and all your mates? Are you ready to stand up in a court room and
explain yourself to all those people? It's not just theft / shoplifting, it's
about all crimes and how they affect you and other people.
It's not all like 'The Bill', but it is possible that at some point you may be stopped by a police officer. Now before you fling yourself to the floor pleading your innocence…it may be that the officer is making enquiries about something completely different. The police have lots of jobs to do and although these include making arrests and catching criminals, they also work with the community to make the area safer and YOU are part of your community. It may be useful to know what your rights are, including :-
If stopped:-
If taken to the station :-
You may not be bothered about any of this and feel pretty sure that you won't get caught. After all you're only having a bit of harmless fun……aren't you? What about those people it affects? You might think that messing around with your mates is funny but think about this. Imagine how your Gran would feel if late at night, she heard noises and shouting outside her house. It might only be a group of young people having a laugh, but she doesn't know that and still feels very frightened.
What about stealing just the odd couple of CDs now and again? Someone has to pay for what you have taken whether that be the shop or the people that work there…would you feel that was fair if you owned the shop?
It also affects you. There are lots of jobs that will require a police check or CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check against your criminal records. Many job application forms ask you to tell them about any convictions you may have. It doesn't just end with the court, something like this can last quite a bit longer. Three years down the line, how will you feel about applying for a job as a retail assistant when you have to tell the employers you were stupid enough to steal a CD? Other types of crime can stop you from applying for certain jobs completely and this could massively affect your career choices.
I know it sounds cheesy, but 'crime doesn't pay'. You might see some short-term benefits, but in the long run it will only limit your options for the future. You have a role to play in reducing crime. If you have been a victim, you will know how horrible it feels and how important it is to respect yourself, other people and your community.
It's all about making the right choices… even if you don't like them much at the time. Be honest, sensible and considerate…and you're half way there!
Citizens Advice Bureau on Young People and the Legal System
Barnardo's Charity Youth Crime Project
Directgov - Crime and Young Offenders
Good Luck!
Jennie Glitherow
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