Sunday, August 12, 2007

Australian authorities detain nine-year-old

An alcoholic nine-year-old boy has become Victoria's youngest prisoner.

A two-year crime spree has led the pint-sized menace to be locked up in a secure welfare unit this week.

Authorities are working to cure him of alcoholism and prevent him from criminal acts.

The boy, who first offended when he was seven, has come under police notice 35 times in two years.

His crimes have been car theft, stealing from cars and chroming. He was also a suspect in a violent assault on a train.

The boy cannot be charged as he is too young, and he has taunted police about this.

Department of Human Services spokesman Brendan Ryan confirmed the child had been locked in secure welfare.

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