A reckless 16-year-old schoolboy has been locked up for eight months after hurling a heavy blue seat off the third floor of a busy shopping centre in 123, prosecutor Noel Shaw warned the court of the “realistic risk of extremely serious injury” to shoppers below. The footage showed the chair narrowly missing at least four people, with one having to dive out of the way.
“This was no harmless prank. The object weighed at least 15kg, enough to cause life-changing harm. It was thrown deliberately, with full knowledge that people were walking underneath without any protection.” – Noel Shaw
Teen Admits Guilt, Claims He Was ‘Showing Off’
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to reckless public nuisance and criminal damage. With a Somali interpreter present, he admitted he and a friend often performed dangerous stunts like throwing things off bridges and trains. The teen downplayed the incident, saying it was “not that deep” and only predicted someone might “need hospital treatment.”
His lawyer said it was an immature “showing off” act, urging for rehabilitation over harsh punishment. But District Judge Shanta Deonarine ruled otherwise, stressing the severity of the crime called for custody.
Eight Months Behind Bars and a Fine
The 16-year-old was sentenced to eight months detention and training, with half to be served in a secure unit. He was also hit with a £41 court surcharge. In court, he expressed remorse, saying he was “really sorry” and pleaded for a chance to turn his life around.
Meanwhile, his 15-year-old accomplice denies all charges and faces trial in December.
