What a shocking headline and to think this is the tip of the iceberg.
Given that most of the perpetrators are children themselves, the response is even more alarming than the problem.
The implied strategy to prosecute is indicative of the failed Law and Order principles applied in this State where it is more important to prosecute than prevent the offence in the first place.
Many of the perpetrators, children as young as 10 years old, have barely learnt that there can be consequences to their actions and charging a few kids will not help many victims.
To argue that it will be a deterrent is absolute rubbish.
The severity and the effect of the problem must not be understated it can be devastating for the victim but to handle it in a draconian fashion will inevitably lead to greater problems.
We must be about preventing or managing the problem.
This problem demands proactive action and that means reintroducing the Police in Schools program so that children can deal directly with a Police member who can through education, reduce the problem and where it flares nip it in the bud before it escalates out of control.
That is being victim, not perpetrator focused, the direction unfortunately our society is inextricably heading.
Election time is a good time to contact your local MP and express your concern. Just an email will help.