Government announces major overhaul of youth crime laws

Rates of youth crime has remained unchanged in the city, as the state government unveils a major overhaul of youth crime laws.

The Queensland Government unveiled a major overhaul of youth crime laws yesterday, after a spate of high profile incidents in the state.

Under new rules, to be introduced later this month, existing bail laws will be strengthened and GPS trackers will be used to monitor repeat youth offenders.

The trackers are currently set to be trialled in Moreton, north Brisbane, Townsville, Logan and the Gold Coast.

“Cabinet is absolutely unanimous in the decisions we have taken,” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“They are strong measures, they are tough measures.”

Speaking separately on youth crime in the city, Toowoomba CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Paul McCusker said rates had remained unchanged.

“Juvenile crime is no worse or no better than it has been before,” Sgt McCusker said.

“There is a core element to this, and like all core elements those people have an impact on other youth, which is the same as for adult crime.”

Sgt McCusker said police monitored successful bail applicants closely.

“Juveniles that are located and have committed property crime, if provided bail are on strict bail reporting,” he said.

“There are avenues which we implement every day of the week to check on persons who have applied for bail.”

He urged residents to keep an eye on their personal safety.

“It is important that now that we are returning to our workplaces and day to day existence we continue to lock and secure our homes and vehicles,” he said.

“Secure your homes and motor vehicles – we have had some instances where cars have been left running in driveways or unsecured.

“The inconvenience caused to members of the public is huge when a car is stolen, there is a large insurance cost.”

For more on the new State Government changes click here.