Robbery competition for young people

Finalists will see their videos posted on Bedfordshire Police’s website where the public can vote for their favourite.

Richard Denton, the force’s Children and Young People Development Officer and schools co-ordinator, said some youngsters are naive and do not realise the significance of their actions.

He said: “Reducing robbery is a priority for the force but many people don’t realise what constitutes an offence. Robbery is when you use or threaten to use force to steal. It’s more serious than theft and you can be guilty of robbery even if you are just part of a group that robbed someone and carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

“Bedfordshire Police hopes that portraying this message through song, dance or drama will bring home the reality of crime and make young people think twice about their actions. We are delighted to be linking up with the Crimestoppers youth brand ‘Fearless’ website as giving information about robbery and solving robbery is as important as preventing it.

“We really hope schools and clubs will see this competition as a fun and inspiring way to teach young people about consequences around this often violent and intimidating offence while harnessing their creative talents.”

Entries must be received no later than 26 October 2012.

The winner from each category will receive £100 worth of high street vouchers. For more details about the competition go to www.bedfordshire.police.uk and click on the ‘Stay safe’ section.