The police say: a young person who is intoxicated may become a victim of crime
Underage alcohol use is most evident to the police as a range of disruptive behaviour in public places that are popular among young people, such as shopping centres. Unfortunately, intoxicated young people are also more likely to commit crimes, the most common of which include property, violent, traffic and sexual offences. And an intoxicated young person may more easily become the victim of a crime themselves.
“Even a single incident involving alcohol can directly or indirectly have far-reaching consequences for a young person’s life,” says Detective Sergeant Mikko Pitkänen of the Central Finland Police Department. “These consequences can relate to things such as health, driving, studying or choosing a profession. When you drink alcohol, your judgement is impaired and you take more risks, which means that you may not stop to consider even the more serious consequences of your actions.”
Danger lurks in social media
Detective Sergeant, what kindsof risks do young people face when buying alcohol through, for example, Snapchat or other social media channels?
“There are an increasing number of risks associated with illegal intoxicant trafficking or handing over alcohol to minors. The product may not be what was advertised, or a substance that is hazardous to health may have been added to it. These kinds of deals have become less safe for both sellers and buyers. Intoxicant trafficking also involves debts, which can at worst be collected through physical acts of violence.”
Chief Superintendent Pekka Heikkinen of the National Police Board of Finland also notes that when young people are not accustomed to drinking alcohol end up in unfamiliar places or situations, they face an increased threat of becoming victims of a violent or sexual crime.
The police have a few tips for parents who are afraid that young people will get drinks elsewhere if they cannot be obtained at home.
“Good communication is important. It’s worthwhile talking about all the new things and temptations that will arise during adolescence in good time and to go over the facts together. It’s important for parents to know where young people are going, what they’re doing, and with whom.” says Pitkänen.
