Mothers outline true cost of crime

TWO women whose lives were shattered by crime have told youngsters of their experiences in a bid to help them steer clear of trouble.

Sharon Crowshaw and Jo Swanston have taken part in a pioneering scheme showing teenagers the consequences of criminal activity.

The Crime to Custody project in Oldham has already seen teenagers from Greenacres Youth Inclusion Programme (GYIP) cut free from the wreckage of “stolen” cars before being locked up in a cell at Chadderton Police Station.

The simulations were followed by a mock trial at Oldham Magistrates’ Court to show where criminal behaviour can lead.

The youngsters — who have already spoken of how the initiative has taught them about the effects of crime and put them off making wrong decisions — have now taken part in a mock panel meeting at Oldham Youth Offending Service to show them the impact crime has on families.

Jo’s son, Michael Fitzpatrick (21), died after taking drugs and crashing a car.

Sharon’s son, Carl, was killed by a hit-and-run drink driver as he crossed Rochdale Road, Royton. Aidan Graham was jailed for four years after admitting failing to stop and causing death by dangerous driving.

The death led Sharon to launch a one-woman campaign against drink driving.

She told the Chronicle that the project was making a difference and that meeting victims of crime brought home the terrible consequences.

Sharon said: “I think it is a good thing that they are trying to make young ones aware of speeding and drink driving. I got a lot out of it.

“I showed them the photographs of the car that killed Carl and how bad the damage was after hitting a human at 60mph. They were shocked at the state of the car.

“I told them I would not like two police officers having to go to their mother’s house to tell them their son had been killed through speeding and drink driving.

“I think being told by someone who has been through it made them take notice. They were very interested.”

The scenarios have been organised by Positive Steps Youth Inclusion Project and the police.