Leeds Youths Spark Weekend Chaos with Violence and Arson
Leeds cops launched a major probe after two nights of mayhem rocked the city last November. From smashed cars to fiery fences, a gang of rowdy youths turned the streets into a battleground.
Saturday Night: Cars Vandalised and Officers Attacked
On the evening of November 7, trouble flared on Kendal Drive. A large gang caused damage to a car and even a house before hurling missiles at police officers and their vehicles. The chaos forced public order units to move in fast, dispersing crowds and maintaining a strong presence to keep the peace.
Sunday Night: Bricks, Fireworks and Arson Fury
The violence escalated the next evening near the junction of Rathmell Road and Ullswater Crescent. Police vans were pelted with bricks and fireworks as a crowd gathered. Officers stepped up once again, breaking up groups and tackling further incidents, including a garden fence and a car set ablaze.
Crackdown Yields 39 Arrests and 21 Summonses
Thanks to Leedswatch CCTV and relentless detective work, 39 suspects have been arrested so far. Just yesterday, 21 males—mostly juveniles—were served summonses, facing charges including violent disorder, burglary, and arson.
Leeds Anti-Social Behaviour Team joined forces with officers, issuing multiple housing warnings. The young offenders are scheduled to appear at Leeds Magistrates on January 11 and 12 next year.
Three Already Punished, Investigation Continues
Earlier, two men and a 14-year-old youth faced the courts:
- A 48-year-old man fined after pleading guilty to affray.
- A 27-year-old fined for drunk and disorderly behaviour, criminal damage, and possession of an offensive weapon.
- A 14-year-old handed a 12-month detention and training order with six months detention for violent disorder and criminal damage.
Inquiries are ongoing as detectives dig deeper into the weekend’s mayhem.
