A shocked community is calling for action after a horrendous video showing three teenage girls carrying out a violent assault on another young girl was circulated on social media.
North Yorkshire police say three people have been arrested, they have appealed for information and asked witnesses or anyone with video footage to come forward.
The attack happened in Bullamoor Park in Northallerton around 9.30pm on Friday November 11. The Darlington and Stockton Times/ Northern Echo has been sent the video footage but because it is so distressing is not using it.
It’s believed the young girl who was attacked was left badly bruised and shaken but not seriously injured.
A statement has been issued by North Yorkshire Police. They said: “We have become aware of a video circulating on Social media showing a violent assault committed by three young people in Northallerton.
“The incident has been reported to the Police and as a result three people have been arrested. Enquiries are ongoing. If you are a witness to this or have any video footage of this then please ring 101 and quote reference number 12220200724.”
Northallerton Town council said they are horrified by the attack and are working with North Yorkshire police to examine CCTV from the park.
It’s understood the three teenagers are all aged under 15 and have been released on bail pending investigations.
Outraged residents took to social media to express their concern. The distressing video shows many youngsters standing around, one laughing, as the girl is kicked and stamped upon.
One resident protested: “This video is the worst thing I’ve ever seen, TV wouldn’t show it as it’s too violent. Most young adults don’t behave like this but I am hearing and have witnessed intimidating behaviour more in our lovely town. Don’t know what to suggest but to everyone who watched it happening and stood and did nothing, filmed, laughed, kicked that poor girl, shame on you.”
Others added: “One of the worst parts is they obviously either don't realise, or don't care that they literally could have killed the poor girl. And the 25 by standers should be just as ashamed.”
“I can’t accept people actually stood and took a video and didn’t help that poor girl, they could have killed her.”
“I hope that those in the crowd watching are also identified and charged , to stand there and do nothing is disgusting. I also hope school gets involved and they are removed, hopefully the girl is not seriously harmed and gets the best support to recover.”
“That video is absolutely disgusting, and so scary that attacks like that are happening to young kids. That poor girl. It’s about time something was done. This town is getting terrible for antisocial behaviour and these kids think they run it. Nothing is ever done. The level of that assault was absolutely vile and the punishment should match that. Just glad the girl isn’t seriously injured as that could have resulted in a whole different situation.”
Northallerton Town Council said: ”We are horrified to hear of this attack and are cooperating with North Yorkshire Police to make any CCTV footage we have available to them, during their investigation.
NTC has been working to combat anti-social behaviour by improving our CCTV provision and clearing areas of overgrown shrubs, to allow better visibility in our open spaces. We have two additional cameras planned however it is clear that we need to do more and we are actively seeking other solutions, in collaboration with the HDC CCTV Team and NYP, to keep our residents and visitors safe. NTC's thoughts are with the young person involved and we hope they make a full and speedy recovery."
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