Shock Test Reveals Hotels Let Teens Book Rooms
Kent Police teamed up with two cadets to crack down on hotels renting rooms to underage guests. The sting, held on 22 and 23 June 2021, aimed to protect youngsters from potential harm.
Only Two Out of Twelve Said No
The duo, aged just 14 and 15, visited 12 local hotels and B&Bs posing as customers. Shockingly, only two venues turned them away. The rest handed over rooms without blinking.
Police Say It’s About Safety, Not Shaming
Police Community Support Officer Mark Ball led the operation. He said: “This wasn’t about calling out businesses but making sure everyone knows they have a duty to protect young people. Saying no to underage room bookings could stop serious harm.”
He praised one venue that not only refused the booking but also called the police, worried for the teens’ welfare.
“Those who slipped up were given a warning about their responsibilities and the serious risks of child exploitation, trafficking, and county lines gangs,” added Ball.
