"NO DIFFERENT here to Darwin" is how a new business owner describes Moree's high rate of youth crime.

"It has definitely worsened here since we took over the business 18 months ago," the owner said.

"It became so bad, we installed automatic gates that lock at night, that's deterred some break-ins, but not all."

The owner did not want to be named for fear of reprisals.

Nor did another businessman, who manages one of Moree's 14 motels.

"[Youth crime] is very scary," he said.

"A few months ago, young kids broke into one of the rooms and asked the guest for his car keys.

"He wanted to take the car for a joyride. The matter was reported to police and they caught the boys, but I later heard they were released on bail."

Youth crime is not only affecting the town's 8000-odd residents. It i

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