Crawley secondary school pupils meeting in parks to fight

Sussex Police confirmed that they have received several reports involving school-aged children in Crawley, with young people reportedly being encouraged or pressured to attend local parks.

Chief Inspector Steven Turner said: "We have received several reports of fights at parks in Crawley believed to involve children from local schools.

"There are investigations underway into two reported assaults – we are aware of video footage relating to these matters, and this is currently being reviewed.

"Officers are liaising directly with schools, parents, and partner agencies to identify any children involved, and to determine what further action will be taken as appropriate.

"We continue to take steps to prevent any further offending and put safeguarding measures in place, including arranging assemblies at schools to discuss the consequences of being involved in violence and anti-social behaviour, and increasing patrols in identified areas to deter further incidents taking place.

"We are working hard alongside partners to ensure Crawley remains a safe space for all our children to enjoy."

Locations currently under investigation include Northgate Park, Ifield Green, and Rusper Road.

Sussex Police warned the parents of pupils at all seven secondary schools in Crawley. (Image: Sussex Police)

A letter sent to parents by Sussex Police on May 11 revealed that some young people have recently been "encouraged or, in some cases, pressured to attend local parks by others they may know but are not necessarily friends with."

The letter urged parents to be vigilant if their child asks to meet unfamiliar people, suggesting they ask questions about who they plan to meet, where they are going, and how they will get there, and to ensure their child is not going alone.

Sussex Police have informed all seven of Crawley’s secondary schools about the concerns.

They have also advised teaching staff to consider whether pupils who attend school with unexplained injuries with could be linked to these incidents.

The letter also warned of the serious consequences of filming or sharing videos of such violence, stressing that doing so could result in police action.