Gunner defends record on bail reform but says ’genuine lasting consequence’ is the best way to solve crime

CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner has defended his government’s record on bail law reform, saying about 75 per cent of repeat offenders don’t get bail

Chief Minister Michael Gunner has defended his government’s record on crime Picture: Che Chorley

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CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner has defended his government’s record on bail law reform, saying about 75 per cent of repeat offenders don’t get bail.

In response to a listener question on ABC Radio on Tuesday morning, Mr Gunner stressed that while his government has “strengthened bail laws”, focusing too much on bail was flawed because bail became a factor only after a crime has been committed.

Mr Gunner said the focus should be on preventing crime in the first place by establishing “genuine lasting consequence … that breaks the cycle of crime.”

“We’re doing a lot of work making sure there are consequences in place.”

“I understand that there are people out there who are extremely worried about crime,” Mr Gunner told ABC Radio.

“I think it’s important that everybody is safe and feels safe.”

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Mr Gunner acknowledged the recent horror weekend in Alice Springs, when the town suffered 25 break-ins in just three days.

He said police responded immediately to this crime spike with extra foot patrols and by establishing a mobile police station in the CBD.

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He said that, following those actions, Alice Springs saw “a reduction in numbers” again.