Gold Coast youth crime: Top cop Craig Hanlon slams teen gang attack at Runaway Bay
A group of 15 teenagers who attacked an 11-year-old and 13-year-old for their mobile phone have been branded as “cowardly”.
Police & Courts
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A group of 15 teenagers who attacked an 11-year-old and 13-year-old for their mobile phone have been branded as “cowardly”.
The two younger teens were near the Coles at the Runaway Bay Shopping Centre carpark about 5.30pm on Saturday when a group of about 15 teens attacked.
Gold Coast Police Chief Superintendent Craig Hanlon said one of the pair who was attacked was punched in the throat.
Paramedics were called to treat his injuries.
The large group stole a mobile phone from the pair.
It is believed the victims knew some of the teens in the larger group.
“Fifteen kids picking on an 11 and 13-year-old – they might thing they’re tough but they’re not – that’s cowardly behaviour,” Chief Supt Hanlon said.
“Because they are in a group they think they can get away with things.
“Well, the message from police is that’s cowardly behaviour and if we get enough evidence we will prosecute.”
Chief Supt Hanlon said he was confident police would track down the group of 15.
Police are urging anyone with any information to contact Police Link on 131 444 or their nearest police station.
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