A DRUNKEN teenager who smashed a window at his own home and then reported it to the police has been fined.

The 19-year-old told police that yobs had thrown a brick at the house, smashing a window in the door.

The alleged crime happened at a house in Barchester Avenue, Breightmet, in the early hours of the morning.

But when police launched an investigation, the man admitted getting drunk.

When he returned home he realised he did not have a key and went to the back door and banged on the glass in the door, which smashed.

He reported it to the police as a crime, rather than admit what he had done to his mother, and when the truth was found out he was given an £80 fine.

Police are warning people not to waste their time by reporting false crimes.

PC Stuart Heaton, of Bolton East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Rather than face the wrath of his mother he decided to lie and ring the police saying that someone else has caused the damage.

“He admitted this on interview and was then issued with a fixed penalty notice for wasting police time.

“This is a serious offence, particularly as our resources are limited.

“We want to remind people of the consequences of falsely reporting crimes.

“The police investigate all matters fully, prosecute offenders coming to light and liaise with respective landlords with a view of seeking further civil action in the way of warning letters, Anti Social Behaviour Orderss and possible eviction.”

The incident was reported to police at 1am on March 18.