Sedgley police detain teen suspect by following his footprints in the snow (From Dudley News)

Sedgley police detain teen suspect by following his footprints in the snow

10:10am Friday 18th January 2013 in News

OVERNIGHT snow helped Sedgley police track down a teenage suspect, after officers simply followed his footprints.

The 17 year-old was believed to have smashed windows and overturned a car in Bilston Street last night, and was detained by officers within four minutes.

Police received a call to the scene from a member of the public, following a report of a group of youths throwing bricks at passing cars, at around 11.10pm.

Officers were able to follow fresh tracks in the snow and stop the teenager close-by.

During the incident a number of bricks were thrown at cars, including a private hire taxi whose windows were smashed. The driver was uninjured during the incident, near to the Beacon Hotel.

A car was also turned onto its side in nearby Dormston Drive.

Sedgley neighbourhood Sergeant Rob Simpson, said: "The quick response of officers in the area meant we were able to arrest a lad nearby for the damage, and a second youth was also cautioned for possession of cannabis.

"We take such incidents very seriously and will be carrying out further enquiries in the area.

"Anyone with information is urged to call us, here at Sedgley, at the earliest convenience."

The teenager, from Upper Gornal, remains in police custody this morning and will be questioned by officers on suspicion of criminal damage.

Anyone with information should call Dudley Police on 101.