London, Nov 20 (ANI): A 12-year-old boy, who has been arrested 40 times this year, was finally locked up on November 19.

The boy, whose name has been withheld for legal reasons, was described as a one child crimewave by magistrates.

He was given just eight months detention after his lawyer argued that he should be spared youth custody, as he would be the youngest inside and might try to be like the older thugs.

It was revealed during the hearing that when the young boy was last arrested, he was so drunk he needed hospital treatment.

The lad admitted to robbery, three burglaries, assault, three thefts and criminal damage charges, and asked for 16 other offences to be considered.

Added to the charges, the youth court in Blackpool was also told that police believe he was also responsible for rolling a bowling ball towards 11-year-old Ryan Johnson and asking him to kick it back.

Innocent Ryan, thinking it was a football, took a huge swipe and broke his foot.

You have no regard for people or property. In essence we have a 12-year-old child who is completely out of control, the Daily Star quoted magistrate Paul Marley as telling him.

You are a one child crimewave, he added.

Blackpool Police Insp Louise Leyland said it was the first time in her 16-year career she had asked for a 12-year-old to be taken into custody.

He has committed an horrific menu of crimes, she stated. (ANI)