Police have arrested two teenage boys after an act of vandalism at a Midlands pub led to a serious flood, causing significant damage.
Vandalism Incident at The Crown Inn
Staffordshire Police were called to The Crown Inn on The Green in Handsacre, near Lichfield, on Friday, January 2. The call came after reports that two individuals had vandalised the premises.
It is alleged that the pair kicked a waste pipe off a toilet, which resulted in water flooding the area. The incident caused considerable disruption to the local business.
Arrests and Police Investigation
Following enquiries, officers made two arrests on Tuesday, January 6. The suspects, both 13-year-old boys from Armitage, were detained on suspicion of criminal damage.
A police spokesperson confirmed: “Two boys have been arrested in Armitage after pub toilets were damaged. On Friday we were called to The Crown following reports that two boys had kicked the waste pipe off the toilet, causing a flood.”
The teenagers have since been released on bail with conditions while the investigation by Staffordshire Police continues.
Ongoing Crackdown on Anti-Social Behaviour
Inspector Melissa Byrne, from the Lichfield local policing team, linked the incident to broader community concerns. She stated that police are actively responding to a number of recent reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the Armitage area.
“We’re working hard to proactively tackle these concerns,” Insp Byrne said. This includes using anti-social behaviour legislation, conducting targeted patrols, and gathering evidence for multiple ongoing cases.
She reassured local residents and business owners: “I can assure residents and businesses that we are actively targeting those causing persistent issues in the local community.” The police are encouraging anyone who experiences or witnesses similar behaviour to come forward.
To report information, contact Staffordshire Police on 101 or via the Live Chat function on their website. To provide information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
