Parents are culpable
In reference to the Puckey Ave Village lady's car trashed by children beyond repair (Escapade ends at Kaingaroa, April 7).
In the early 1960s, I remember when two young lads trashed someone's boat shed on the Milford Creek in Auckland. The parents were held responsible for the damage done to the shed, plus all goods stolen and trashed. This cost them a considerable amount.
Because the incident went to court, it was decided by the parents and the judge that it would be best to send the boys to Wesley College rather than Waikeria Borstal, where they would have had to do at least three years.
The cost of the college was up to the parents. No handouts in those days, and parents were responsible for their children until they left home, had a fixed abode and a lawful means of support.
