THREE teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of burglary after an incident in Droitwich, which has prompted police to issue a warning about trespassing in abandoned or derelict buildings.
The three teenagers were arrested on Thursday, May 28, after accessing a property undergoing renovation in rural Droitwich.
They were bailed pending further enquiries.
Police are warning of the safety risks and potential criminality for anyone thinking of doing the same.
Abandoned and derelict buildings often contain unstable structures, exposed wiring, hazardous materials, and unsafe flooring, and there is a high risk of serious injury from falls, collapsing walls or ceilings, and other environmental dangers.
It can also place the emergency services at additional risk when responding to incidents in unsafe environments.
Entering a building without permission may constitute criminal trespass or burglary, depending on the circumstances.
Causing damage to property, whether intentional or reckless, can result in charges of criminal damage, and those found inside such buildings may also be arrested if tools or items associated with forced entry are present.
Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Droitwich, Lisa Hornberger, said: “We would like to remind members of the public of the laws and safety risks around entering abandoned buildings following some recent incidents.
“We are discouraging people from committing an unlawful entry and encouraging parents to speak to their children around this too.
“We cannot emphasise enough that such behaviour can lead to both serious harm and/or criminal prosecution.”
