Natasha Fyles commits to review of police powers, bail laws after alleged murder

The NT government will enact a raft of new measures to increase public safety following the alleged murder of Darwin bottleshop worker Declan Laverty and anti-social issues in Alice Springs.

The NT government has announced a raft of new measures following the alleged murder of 20-year-old bottleshop worker Declan Laverty.

The new measures will include a review of bail laws, increased police presence targeting known hotspots, a workplace safety review and capsicum spray for transit safety officers, crowd controllers and security guards.

The NT government will immediately review the Territory’s bail laws for offences involving a weapon, as well as review penalties for people carrying weapons in public.

NT Police will continue high visibility patrols targeting known hotspots in Darwin and through Operation Drina in Alice Springs.

Police patrol the Todd Mall on horseback as part of Operation Drina, targeting anti-social behaviour and associated crime in Alice Springs. Picture: Jason Walls

Meanwhile, the NT government will also support funding for crowd controllers at takeaway liquor outlets until the end of June 2023, meeting community demand following Sunday’s tragedy.

An audit of late-night retail outlets will offer businesses advice on how to increase security and reduce crime through environmental design.

The government will also work with the retail industry to develop a best practice training guide for employees when dealing with confrontation in the workplace.

The training will include de-escalation tactics and a Responsible Service of Alcohol refresher.

The new measures will complement trespass laws set to be debated in parliament this week.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles brings forward new initiatives to increase community safety following an alleged murder on Sunday night. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles said the NT community’s safety was “paramount”.

“Our government, just like every Territorian, is fed up with acts of violence on our streets and towards our workers,” she said.

“Today’s measures, along with an increase of high visibility policing, are just the beginning of multiple initiatives we are looking to implement.

“These initiatives will include measures to deter violent behaviour toward workers and the community to ensure Territorians are safe.”

CLP Opposition Leader Lia Finocchiaro said immediate action was needed on bail laws. Picture: Annabel Bowles

Opposition leader Lia Finnochiaro said a bail review was not enough, and immediate action was needed instead.

“His death was avoidable but it cannot be in vain,” she said.

“Our legislation is written and could be implemented this week by the parliament.

“It is important Natasha Fyles does not pick and choose parts of bail to be reviewed.”