Three teens charged after knifepoint robbery

Three teenagers have been charged after a man was robbed at knifepoint.

A 13-year-old boy and two 16-year-olds allegedly harassed the man in Bridgwater town centre on January 3.

The following day, they allegedly tried to rob another man in the same location. All three were charged with robbery and attempted robbery.

Appearing at Taunton Magistrates' Court on 6 January, the three were bailed ahead of a trial on July 23.

Avon and Somerset Police said they had seized a "large knife" and cannabis from the 13-year-old boy after the incident on January 3.

At about 17.30 GMT the next day, a man was approached in the town centre by three boys who threatened him and demanded he hand over a pair of trainers, the court was told.

Following the two incidents, the 13-year-old was additionally charged with possession of class B drugs with intent to supply, possession of a bladed article and assaulting an emergency worker.

At court on January 6, he pleaded guilty to these charges and was handed an eight-month referral order.

Neighbourhood Inspector Sarah Knight said the team was "working closely with specialist officers to address issues of anti-social behaviour and criminality in Bridgwater".

She said: "While we will always investigate these offences, it is not something we can police our way out of and so we are also collaborating closely with our partners to support education initiatives and to address the issues underlying youth offending and identify those most at risk.

"I encourage any parent who is concerned about their child and the company they are keeping to get in touch with the neighbourhood team.

"Working together with parents is crucial in resolving these issues and supporting our community."

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