Public to have their say over rising anti-social behaviour in Meath village
A public meeting has been called to address what has been described as “a growing wave of criminal and anti-social behaviour” in the Johnstown area of Navan.
Independent Councillor Alan Lawes said he has received numerous reports in recent days of teenagers engaging in “dangerous and intimidating” behaviour around Johnstown.
“One man rang me in fear after passing large groups of teenagers on electric bikes and scooters attacking people’s houses with fireworks,” he said.
According to the councillor, several residents have contacted him about similar incidents.
“Other residents reported teenagers on large-wheeled electric bikes flying up the roads with no lights, weaving in and out of traffic with balaclavas on and intimidating anyone who says anything to them,” he said.
“If they are allowed to continue, they will either kill themselves or an innocent pedestrian or motorist,” Cllr Lawes warned.
He described one particularly serious incident in which a family home was targeted with fireworks.
“A family home was again attacked with fireworks, damaging cars parked in the driveway and leaving the family’s front door smoking after the attack.”
“I attended the scene….and spoke to the family, and then to Gardaí when they arrived.”
Cllr Lawes added the ongoing incidents represent “a level of anti-social and criminal intimidation that has to be stamped out.”
“The current situation cannot be allowed to continue,” he said.
“That’s why I am calling a public meeting and inviting Gardaí, public representatives, and local residents to attend.”
The meeting aims to give residents an opportunity to share their concerns and develop a coordinated community response to improve safety in the area.
It will take place on Monday, October 20, at 7.30 p.m., upstairs in O’Brien’s, Old Johnstown Village.