Police have arrested an 11-year-old boy from Chatham in connection with an alleged assault at a newsagent on Main Road, Hoo.
Kent Police were called to the business on Saturday, April 12, 2025, shortly before 5 pm following reports that a group of children had entered the store and a liquid was thrown from a plastic bottle. Officers conducted enquiries, including interviewing witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage. As a result, the boy was invited for a voluntary interview with a parent before being arrested on Tuesday, May 6.
He has since been bailed with conditions while the Crown Prosecution Service considers a charging decision. In response to concerns raised by residents and business owners, Kent Police have increased patrols in the Hoo area. Neighbourhood officers have also been engaging with the local community.
As part of a broader effort to tackle antisocial behaviour, safety cameras have been installed in the area.
Inspector Paul Diddams of Medway’s Community Safety Unit said:
‘While we continue to investigate recent reports of disorderly behaviour in Hoo, we have taken steps to address the issues that have been raised and our neighbourhood officers remain focused on ensuring a swift and effective response to protect the public.
‘Anyone experiencing antisocial behaviour should report it as soon as possible and via the appropriate channels, so that the measures taken are robust and proportionate.’