Sutton Police bribe kids to behave

Haven't they heard of databases and CCTV?

By John Oates • Get more from this author

Posted in Policing, 25th July 2008 14:18 GMT

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Sutton Police have started a scheme to get local kids to turn up to talk to community officers by being nice to them.

Kids can sign up for a "Positive Citizen Card" which gives them access to DIY courses at B&Q and discount cinema tickets for one night a month which officers also attend. Some local shops and restaurants offer ten per cent discounts on production of the card.

In exchange the kids, aged between 12 and 17, must sign a good behaviour contract and attend youth panels to discuss issues with police.

Chief Inspector Dave Gair of Sutton Police said it was an innovative way to break down barriers between young people and the police.

Anyone caught misbehaving will have their card withdrawn.

Reportedly McDonalds and Pizza Hut are among those offering discounts. This has some local papers to warn of an impending police-fuelled child obesity epidemic. We reckon the kids are eating enough chips all on their own.®

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