Having strong connections to the Neighbourhood Watch and ditching boot camps are some of the suggestions that have been put forward to reduce youth crime.

UQ criminologist Lorraine Mazerolle says while a lot is known about why youth committed crimes, understanding how to stop them is more of a mystery.

She continued by stating that in communities where older people interact with the youth were less likely to see problem arise. Furthermore, groups like Neighbourhood watch act as an empowering force for youths.