'We feel abandoned by police': A community's despair after months of crime
Residents and business owners in Kings Heath, Birmingham, are reporting a surge in anti-social behavior and organized shoplifting by a local gang. The community feels neglected by police as businesses face repeated vandalism and staff assaults.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing tension between local communities and law enforcement regarding the management of anti-social behavior and public safety in urban centers.
Image caption, More than 100 incidents have been linked to the same group, MP Al Carns says
Working on a busy high street, staff at Subway in Kings Heath, Birmingham, are used to dealing with tricky customers.
Teenagers leaping over the counter to steal entire trays of crisps and cookies, however, is not something they were prepared for.
The fizzy drinks fridge has been ransacked numerous times over the summer, the front door and windows smashed. Customers who were unfortunate to witness the attacks have been verbally abused, with one also having his bike vandalised.
"We've had a number of staff leave recently," one worker says. "They should not have to come to work in fear."
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