A MUM was reported by police - after officers caught her teenage son flouting coronavirus protection rules.

Police say they will take action against people who break the restrictions, put in place to save lives.

That tough message was spelled out after the mother of a Carlisle teenager was reported for a possible offence because her 17-year-old – suspected of antisocial behaviour and a burglary – refused to co-operate with officers or explain why he was out with his pals.

Police were alerted in the early hours of Thursday when the boy and his friends were spotted at Sheepmount, Carlisle, allegedly throwing stones at cars.

He refused to explain why he was out and about, or give his details. He was then arrested for police obstruction.

Speaking after the incident, Chief Inspector Richard Quinn said most young people in north Cumbria are responding to the vital need for social distancing during the Covid-19 crisis,

“Most of the people we are speaking to are doing what they’re told,” he said.

“We are getting support from the public and we’d like to thank people for that ongoing support. But there have been young people we’ve had to speak to about breaching the Government’s guidelines [on social distancing].

“There are a small number of people who don’t appear to have fully grasped the seriousness of this; and parents have a responsibility to ensure their children abide by the rules. But it’s not just young people.

“There have been a number of people not abiding by the restrictions; and a number of occasions when officers have had to deal with people exhibiting symptoms of the virus; and with confrontation from members of the public.

“We are trying to be flexible but we want everybody in our communities to follow the guidelines.”

The officer encouraged parents to explain to their children why the guidelines should be followed, pointing out that preventing the spread of Covid-19 saves lives. Experts fear the NHS will be overwhelmed if there is a surge of cases. The force’s strategy is summarised as the four ‘E’s’: engaging with the community; explaining the importance of social distancing restrictions; encouraging people to follow the stay-at-home rule; and – as a last resort – enforcing the rules.

Chief Inspector Quinn added: “We will enforce the restrictions where necessary but that’s a last resort. We do have this card to play if necessary: a person could be reported, fined immediately, or they might even be arrested if they carry on putting lives at risk.

“We will continue to engage, explain, and encourage but as a last resort we will enforce the restrictions because it’s is about saving lives.”

Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home). If you do go out, stay 2m away from other people; wash your hands as soon as you get home; and do not meet others, even friends or family.