Two 15-year-old youths charged over taxi damage in Lutana

Last week, three parked taxis were allegedly targeted by youths, who smashed windows and caused other damage. Now two teens have been charged.

Tasmanian Police. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

Two teenagers will face Tasmania’s youth court after they allegedly damaged three parked taxis in Lutana last week.

It’s alleged the damage was caused on April 24, when a group of taxi drivers attended a gathering in the suburb.

Last week, the Hobart Taxi Drivers’ Association told the Mercury an altercation took place when the drivers noticed the youths near the vehicles.

On Friday Tasmania Police advised two youths, both aged 15, have been charged.

It’s alleged the teens caused damage to the parked cars, including smashing windows.

“There is a small group of recidivist youth offenders who demonstrate a very poor attitude to the community,” Tasmania Police inspector James Semmens said.

“Tasmania Police will continue to work hard detecting and preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour with the aim of making our public spaces safer for everyone.

“We will continue to target anti-social and criminal behaviour and where appropriate, necessary and authorised by law, we will be charging those who offend, and putting them before a Magistrate.”

The two youths, both from Glenorchy, will be proceeded against through the Youth Justice Division of the Hobart Magistrates Court.

250 taxi drivers went on strike on Monday, over what they say is repeated attacks on drivers in Hobart.