What do you do if someone burns your hedge down for no reason?

Question

And you know who did it but the police say it's not worth it as the law is so crap, all they would get is a fine and then probably go and do it again.

that is what the police said, he'd possibly get less punishment as he's 14/15 despite is track record.

less evidence as can't break the confidence of the person who told me. I'm thinking i have to ignore it. This is the way the UK is with youth criminals, they can't do anything and ASBOs are pure crap.

thanks for all your input guys. Hopefully one day the law will change and they can make it worthwhile pressing charges. Atleast it is on record as suspected of doing it. And fairness to the police, he did offer to go and arrest him and that, he just said it wouldn't be worth it. It's the law system that is the problem not the police.

Hopefully i'll be able to move sometime.

thanks.

Answer 1

I'd report it and press charges, even if the police won't do anything. At least then it's on record, just in case something else happens. It sounds like you might be in a rough area. Is moving an option? You might think about keeping a record yourself - you never know when you might need to provide evidence, and this person is bound to get themselves into more trouble. It's a shame this is happening to you, you sound like someone who deserves good neighbours.

Answer 2

oh you're from the UK. I assumed you're American. But anyway, here's what I would do.

1.) videotape it if it happens again. this is evidence.

2.) see an attorney and ask what the gravest possible penal law violation would it constitute (i.e. frustrated arson) that is punishable with more than just a fine. Then file a criminal as well as civil action (recovery of damages) for the destruction of your property.

3.) take the evidence to the police then threaten them you'll sue them for not doing their job (or indifference) if they refuse to do anything about it.

4.) get a gun. that would probably deter any future malicious mischief. you are entitled to protect your person, loved ones and property. (just don't go trigger happy and use it only if it's reaaaallly necessary, like if they come inside your house and threaten you physical harm. DO NOT shoot them if they're not giving any provocation.)

Answer 3

I would buy a Greek Harehound (Hellenikos Ichnilatis) ithas a beautiful and loud voice (loudest in the world)that can be heard for many miles.

Hire a kid to come by and feed it. go to Jamica for a few days.


I just saw that you added detail saying it is a 14-15 year old kid.
I retract my above statement, instead, take the kid fishing,(not to reward him but the first of many steps to try to help this misguided youth) to the airport to watch planes take off and land.. anything, this kid needs a mentor. Make friends, then one sat morning early, break out the shovels, and new shrubs, a little hard work is good for the soul, he might start to feel better about himself and become a good citizen. Or lets just lock him up and give up on him. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child!

Answer 4

its called vandalism. it is punishable by law and you can seek $$$$ for damages. file a warrant with the magistrate. go down to the police station, get the magistrate to write a warrant, then press charges and then go to court to press charges against the offense, or tell the people to pay you. if not, then do the they above. you have the right to have the people arrested and the police have to do what you told them if a law was broken

Answer 5

If that was the response from the police this is unacceptable. This is criminal damage and so long as the evidence is there, they should be taking action. Write to the Chief constable/Chief of Police and complain about their attitude.

You could take civil action (ie sue them) but it will cost more than you have any hope of recovering.

Answer 6

I'd set a trap for this punk-and as a 15 year-old I can help you!! Just act all dejected if you see him and say, "no-one will ever do that again" set up a camcorder and catch him again, or else burn his bush! Surely that law applies to you ? ; )

Answer 7

I think that unfair and irrational. The police should do more about it, maybe give a higher fine and imprison the offender because as you say whats stopping them doing it again.

Answer 8

> Hmm you can burn down somebody else's hedge and put the blame on the person who burned down yours. That way you are safely out of the game while you have started a fight between the other two and you can munch your cookies and watch TV.

Answer 9

sue in the small claims court for the cost of a garden maintenance company to plant a mature hedge

Answer 10

Emigrate. The police are only interested in catching people speeding

Answer 11

If that is the case, you record what the police say then burn back their hedge down.