Fears over number of anti-social behaviour crimes in Culloden
Cllr Macpherson says there's been spate of these over the pandemic.
Last updated 9th Feb 2021
There's concerns over the number of anti-social behaviour crimes being committed in Culloden and nearby areas since the start of the pandemic.
Pictures emerged over the weekend of the Culloden Underpass being vandalised.
This comes after an incident last year where 200 young people allegedly gathered at Culloden avenue.
Police say they are aware of the issues and are working towards tackling them.
Councillor Duncan Macpherson says this is just some of several incidents which have occurred during times when the country has been under COVID-19 restrictions.
He said: "There was close to 200 youths gathering at the Culloden Avenue area during lockdown when no more than three people were allowed to gather together.
"That’s certainly to be dissuaded and it’s not good when that number of people gather together.
“It can be a barrier to people selling houses and in fact it can knock and depreciate the houses people are trying to sell, including the of parents of kids who are putting the graffiti about.
“It’s good guidance to make youngsters aware that this is not clever and remains with them for a long time.
“It’s a bit like somebody having speeding points or drink driving points, it’s there for a long time before it’s removed.
“I don’t want to demonise youngsters because we’re all young and boisterous. But, the main point is we need to be letting our youngsters realise that they all play a part."
Police Scotland say although the recent incident involving graffiti at Culloden Underpass has not been reported, they are making further enquries.
Inspector Alistair Garrow said: “Police in Inverness are aware of a number of issues with youths gathering in the areas concerned and of several reports of anti-social behaviour associated with this.
"Community officers are addressing these concerns and are working with local elected officials and community leaders in tackling the problems.
"Our community officers are also engaging with young people signposting them towards support outlets to help deal with the difficulties and frustrations experienced through current COVID restrictions.
"If anyone has any concerns about anti-social behaviour I would encourage them to call 101 or 999 in an emergency."