Teen crop vandalism sparks police warning

Police have issued a warning after two teenagers caused damage to crops on private farmland in Nottinghamshire, with one appearing before the courts.

The incident took place on 14 December 2025, when the pair were found trespassing on farmland at Ollerton Road, Retford. After gaining access, they drove around the land on mopeds, destroying crops.

Footage later discovered on social media site TikTok showed one of the teenagers riding a moped across the fields, forming part of the evidence gathered during the investigation.

See also: What to do if you have trespassers on your livestock farm

Officers later identified and interviewed two suspects.

When questioned, both admitted their involvement in the damage, as well as driving the mopeds without a licence or insurance.

A 17-year-old boy appeared at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on 20 April, where he pleaded guilty to criminal damage to property, driving without a licence and driving without insurance.

He was ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation, received six penalty points on his driving record and was referred to a youth offender panel.

A 16-year-old boy was dealt with by way of a community resolution order, banning him from entering private farmland and from driving a vehicle. Police said any breach would result in further action.

The pair cannot be named for legal reasons.

PC Hollie Marsh, who led the investigation, said: “This incident has caused stress and inconvenience to a local farmer’s livelihood, and it’s important that the offenders involved understand the seriousness of their actions.

“Damaging crops can cost our farmers a significant amount of money, and our rural communities can often feel isolated.

“This work demonstrates how we are listening and responding to their concerns.

“As a reminder, if you do not have permission to enter farmland, you are committing an offence. All roadworthy vehicles must be insured and taxed.”