By the sounds of it, the police have been put into an awkward situation when the owner of the car has reported it to them.

When it has been reported, it sound like the owner has claimed it is criminal damage.

Criminal Damage occurs when a person "damages or destroys property belonging to another, or is RECKLESS as to whether such property is damaged or destroyed"

In this situation, the playing of football near to a car could be considered reckless.

It is a minor situation, and one which the police would not want to trouble the courts with, and it sounds like they are trying something called "Restorative Disposal".

This is where the "Victim" and "Perpetrator" agree on terms to resolve the matter. Once a resolution is found, the police take no further action. Clearly, they want him to sort out the damage.

If he does not, he may be prosecuted for damage. Dependant on his previous convictions (if any) he may either receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of £80, a criminal caution, or be charged and go to court.

It is a sad situation, but the police are not to blame here. They are acting on governmental guidelines.

My advice? Get your friend to settle up with the car owner. It should end this fiasco.

My credentials? 13 years law experience!!!

sounds a bit like a stitch up to me.

Someones trying to deflect the blame.

Make sure any response is done on headed notepaper.

No need for the police in any of this.

Suggest a drop ball, and you'll knock it back to the (car) keeper.