Key Far North property crime rates drop but copper chopper still a “game changer”, MPs say

Cairns’ criminal minds will be further hindered by a new helicopter hovering overhead, Far North MPs say, despite massive drops in property related crime across the city.

Member for Barron River, Craig Crawford, Queensland Premier Steven Miles and Member for Cairns, Michael Healy with Townsville’s police helicopter. Picture: Annette Dew

Cairns’ criminal minds will be further hindered by a new helicopter hovering overhead, Far North MPs say, despite massive drops in property related crime across the city.

Police Minister Mark Ryan declared offences against property have dropped by 12 per cent while unlawful use of motor vehicles plummeted by 20 per cent in Cairns this year.

Premier Steven Miles with the new police commissioner, Steve Gollschewski in Townsville. Picture: Annette Dew

“The very first call for service for the Townsville helicopter was a little boy lost in the bush. Police tell me they may not have found that boy without the helicopter... there’s a grandma right now cuddling a little boy (because of it).”

Originally published as Key Far North property crime rates drop but copper chopper still a “game changer”, MPs say