Mt Isa police vs teen terrors
REINFORCEMENTS have been sent from Townsville to help Mount Isa police rein in youth gangs terrorising the northwest Queensland city.
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REINFORCEMENTS have been sent from Townsville to help Mount Isa police rein in youth gangs terrorising the northwest Queensland city.
Senior police with specialised experience in tackling youth crime will work with local officers to put a stop to rogue teens stealing, damaging property and taking drugs.
The surge in youth crime has caught the attention of Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, who has organised a meeting to come up with ways of tackling the problem.
Northern Region Assistant Commissioner Paul Taylor said tactics used by Townsville’s Rapid Action Police Hub were being investigated as a possible solution to Mount Isa’s youth crime epidemic.
“We are also looking at some of the other opportunities for collaboration, like the things we did with RAP, where we know we work better with other agencies,” he said.
Police Commissioner Ian Stewart and State Government officials were expected to arrive in Mount Isa today to take part in the meeting.
It comes after residents complained of youths roaming the streets at night, setting fires, drinking alcohol, taking drugs and stealing.
Last month a 10-year-old boy was charged with arson after he allegedly set fire to a police beat in the Mount Isa suburb of Pioneer.
Ms Palaszczuk said it was “disturbing” to see children participating in destructive and anti-social behaviour.
“The Police Minister has asked the QPS to work with the State Member and the Mayor to help develop a whole-of-community response to these issues,” she said.
“Police already conduct proactive patrols across Mount Isa and do not hesitate to take enforcement action against anyone, no matter their age, being violent or destructive.
“But it’s not just about police on the beat – that’s why Mount Isa police are heavily involved in their community.”
Mount Isa Mayor Tony McGrady said he hoped the meeting would deliver results.
“This will not be a talkfest, it will be the start of a long journey which will improve the livability of Mount Isa and introduce changes for our kids and families,” he said.
“I will be demanding from all the players that we don't make excuses ... this is a new beginning.”
Originally published as Mt Isa police vs teen terrors
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