Queenslanders call for action on youth crime after Emma Lovell’s death

The alleged murder of Emma Lovell at her home north of Brisbane on Boxing Day has sent shockwaves around the state, with Queenslanders demanding changes to the youth justice system.

The tragic death of North Lakes woman Emma Lovell has triggered an outpouring of grief and anger across Queensland, with readers questioning the laws surrounding youth crime.

The wife and mother-of-two died after she was allegedly stabbed while defending her home from four teenage male intruders, aged between 16 and 17, on Boxing Day.

Two boys have been charged. It has since been revealed that one of them was on bail.

Readers of The Courier-Mail readers have demanded a number of changes, from tougher punishments to longer detention periods and consequences for people who have been charged and are on bail.

Many have also expressed anger at the comments made by Minister for Children and Youth Justice, Leanne Linard, stating it wasn’t a day for politics.

“If this is not political, then what the hell is it,” asked Eve, as reader Tracey argued it was a day for politics. “Labor has failed miserably with youth crime. Enough is enough,” she said.

Police at the scene of the stabbing that claimed the life of Emma Lovell. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/Courier Mail

James responded by saying: “It is a time for politics! To act on the protection of its citizens, the Minister is a fool to say this is not a time for politics, when will it ever be!!!!!”

Other readers have pointed out the broader issue of juvenile crime and the system that deals with it.

“The State Govt has continued to fail the community for years now on juvenile crime – tragically it is only events such as that wakes the politicians from their perennial slumber and failure to deliver for this community,” Jennifer said.

Kathy said: “Crime particularly youth needs to be taken in hand now, with more serious penalties, the state of the nation is deteriorating, very sad state of affairs.”

Readers have called for parents to face consequences if their children are found guilty of an offence.

Reader Barry said authorities needed to address the prevalence of car theft. Speaking of youth crime generally, he said: “Enforce MANDATORY penalty for car theft and you take away the bleeding heart stories being told by defence attorneys and accepted by Magistrates. Do the crime and do the time. NO EXCEPTIONS!” he said.

And Wayne argued that any talk of policing numbers was meaningless. “Police catch them easily enough but the courts are a turnstile which just sends perpetrators out onto the streets due to ineffective policies. Presently there are no consequences to act as a deterrent.”