Inside the towns where kids wear balaclavas and carry machetes – and locals live in fear
Sydney Morning Herald
by Jordan BakerFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In small towns across regional New South Wales, a disturbing trend has emerged where young people, as young as 16, engage in violent crimes such as break-ins and car thefts. These acts have become so normalized that some view them as a typical night out. The article highlights the case of John*, a 16-year-old who was arrested after being linked to stolen vehicles and aggravated break-ins through his phone's content, which contained incriminating photos and videos.
John’s story illustrates how deeply embedded these crimes have become in local youth culture. His arrest followed the apprehension of older teens involved in similar offenses, including high-speed car chases and thefts. Police discovered evidence on their phones showing the extent of their criminal activities, leading to further arrests and charges for younger individuals like John. This trend reflects a broader issue where kids are drawn into crime due to influences from older peers and systemic issues such as family dysfunction and lack of support.
The article underscores the fear gripping these communities, with residents feeling unsafe in what were once quiet towns. Many of these young offenders come from troubled backgrounds, including addiction, violence, and neglect. Some even flee abusive homes by wandering streets at night, exacerbating the problem further. The use of social media to document and glorify their crimes has turned these acts into a dangerous game of one-upmanship.
This issue is not isolated but part of a larger societal challenge. It raises questions about the failure of support systems to intervene early enough and the impact of social media in normalizing violent behavior. While recent efforts have seen a decline in crime rates, fear remains prevalent, highlighting the need for comprehensive solutions addressing both individual and systemic factors.
The situation in these towns serves as a global reminder of the far-reaching consequences of neglect, poverty, and glorified violence. It calls for stronger community support systems and interventions to prevent at-risk youth from entering the criminal justice system, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and education.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026