In Palmyra local police have taken a controversial step by arresting two grandparents in an effort to curb a rising tide of teen crime.
Palmyra Police Chief Kyle Dinardo tells News10NBC that the arrests were part of a new strategy to prevent ongoing criminal activities by a group of teenagers, including a 14-year-old and a 13-year-old responsible for nearly 30 incidents. These incidents range from vandalism to breaking and entering, with damages totaling around $10,000.
The teens, involved in various offenses such as criminal mischief and trespassing, have put significant strain on community resources. That’s why police say they took the unusual step of charging the grandparents with endangering the welfare of a child, hoping to stem the persistent criminal behavior.
The response has been mixed. Some have expressed frustration over the grandparents being held liable for the kids’ activities. Others have pointed to the lack of resources for troubled youth in rural communities.
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