'Stop - and consider the consequences' British Transport Police issue urgent warning over anti social behaviour - Elsecar

A rise in anti social behaviour has prompted British Transport Police to urge those responsible to stop and think before they cause serious harm and risk prosecution.

 

In recent weeks there has been an increase in incidents involving stones being thrown at trains and items thrown from bridges as well as trespass and criminal damage in the Elsecar area.

 

Now police, who are targeting the area with frequent patrols, some of which are plain clothes, are intent on stamping out the dangerous behaviour before someone is hurt.

 

New technology including drones, funded by Network Rail, are also being used in a bid to identify those responsible.

 

PS Darren Martin said: "Once again this issue is rearing its ugly head and with it comes the inevitable dangers of trespassing on the railway and targeting trains to deliberately cause damage.

 

"It is only a matter of time before someone is hurt by this reckless and quite frankly, stupid behaviour. Passengers and drivers are innocent people who are simply doing their job or trying to get from A to B. I urge those responsible to consider how they'd feel if someone was injured or worse because of their actions.

 

"And if the thought of harming others isn't enough, then they should think about the danger they risk to themselves by trespassing on the railway; if they are lucky enough to escape injury they could face prosecution or a criminal record - all for a moment of stupidity.

 

"Parents and guardians - we need you to make sure our message gets through - please educate your young people about the dangers and the risks of behaviour like this - lives could depend on it."

 

Anyone who spots someone trespassing is asked to get in touch by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. Always ring 999 in an emergency.

 

British Transport Police and Network Rail run a hard-hitting safety campaign, You Vs Train, which highlights the devastating consequences that trespassing on the railway can have. Find out more at youvstrain.co.uk.