35 people arrested as Taskforce Guardian takes over Hervey Bay

Seventy charges have been laid against 35 young Hervey Bay men and women as police move to suppress youth crime in the city.

Taskforce Guardian arrived in Hervey Bay last week, resulting in the arrest of 35 people on 70 charges during a week-long youth crime crackdown.

From March 11-18, members of the task force worked alongside expert Youth Justice workers and frontline police to target repeat property offenders and improve general safety across the Fraser Coast.

Of the 35 charged, 26 were young people who were arrested on 48 charges related to stolen vehicles, break and enters and bail offences.

Nine adults were also arrested on 22 offences of a similar nature.

Here a 17-year-old Eli Waters girl is cautioned in relation to drug possession offences (cannabis).

Wide Bay District Officer Superintendent Paul Algie said the response team was an effective tool to strengthen the region’s response to youth crime and anti-social behaviour.

“The operation has assisted our local police with both crime reduction and crime prevention,” he said.

“Having the additional presence in our community sends a strong message to anyone thinking of committing offences.

26 youth were arrested by Taskforce Guardian in Hervey Bay from March 11 -18.

“We will find you and we will hold you to account.”

The Taskforce worked with key support services to engage at-risk youth with relevant programs, with a focus on health, education, disability services and First Nations initiatives.

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