Youth admits criminal damage charge

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared before Hastings Youth Court last Friday.

The youth caused £500 of damage to a metal storage cabinet at Jempsons on November 16 last year.

Two additional charges against the boy were dropped.

The prosecution withdrew one charge of using threatening words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress on December 1, saying it was not in the public interest to proceed with the case.

A similar charge, dated November 15, was withdrawn and no evidence was offered.

The youth will reappear at court on February 8 for sentencing over the criminal damage matter.

The hearing will also determine whether an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) should be served.

The teenager was released on bail on the condition he does not enter Market Square in Battle.