A sports complex in Campbell River has added more on-site security due to what one RCMP officer is calling a spike in “anti-social behaviour” by teens. Recent incidents at Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex include teens swearing at staff, spitting on windows and taking iceballs from the Zamboni snow pile to throw at people and cars, according to RCMP Const. Maury Tyre.
While he says the bulk of the behaviour, which “seems to go in waves,” is “relatively minor,” it still makes for an unenjoyable, unsafe experience for other visitors. “These youth are attending ..
. the facility unaccompanied by adults and are not there to use the programming offered,” Tyre tells CHEK News. “That means they are not there to skate, use the pool, or watch the Junior Hockey Games.
” Last Thursday, staff at the Dogwood Street complex took to social media , saying they were “strengthening the security presence over the next few Friday nights to ensure a safe and positive atmosphere,” following incidents the Friday prior. “We also appreciate the ongoing support and guidance from our next-door neighbours at the Campbell River RCMP, and we hope that on Friday evenings, we can continue to be a family-friendly place for our community to gather.” Story continues below A post shared by Strathcona Gardens Recreation (@strathconagardens) Along with security, which has “increased significantly .
.. at every entry door,” Tyre adds that people may have noticed more police presen.
