Townsville youth crime blitz continues with new phase

The first phase of a city-wide policing blitz on crime has wrapped up, with strong results recorded across Townsville.

Police Minister Bill Byrne said the first thirty days of Operation Oscar Merchant had seen police take action against a large number of young and adult offenders.

“This initial thirty day blitz with the assistance of thirty additional police has made a significant dent in crime across the city, and I want to thank all of those officers who have joined with local crews to over the course of this operation,” Minister Byrne said.

“Over the first phase of the operation, police across Townsville have made 538 arrests and laid 983 charges. The majority of those charges relate to drug, property and traffic matters.

“These results are encouraging and shows that our whole-of-government approach to these issues is having an impact.”

Northern Region Assistant Commissioner Paul Taylor said phase two of Operation Oscar Merchant would begin tomorrow.

“Over the next three weeks, Townsville residents will continue to see an increased police presence across the city, with ten additional officers to support the work of our local crews,” Assistant Commissioner Taylor said.

“The focus of the operation remains the same – we will continue to target and take enforcement action against those who continue to offend against the community.

“In addition, the work of the Townsville Stronger Communities Action Group is now under way. The Group, headed by Inspector Glenn Doyle, is made up of a senior representative of key agencies in order to provide an integrated, whole-of-government response to youth crime issues.

“The Group is co-located at the Townsville Rapid Action and Patrol Group (RAP) hub in Condon, and has begun to develop intense case management systems directly targeting identified recidivist offenders, vulnerable young people as well as their families to support positive change.”

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke welcomed phase two of Operation Oscar Merchant and said police efforts would be further complimented by long-term, holistic strategies that would look at all contributing factors to youth crime.

“We are looking at real solutions for young people already in the cycle of offending and re-offending, and those who are at-risk of going down a similar path,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Issues such as community safety, service delivery, housing, education, training and health – issues young people are facing before and after they enter the justice system – will be looked at from every corner of our society, through every lens.”

Minister Byrne said the work of police to curb youth violence and anti-social behaviour would continue for the long haul.

“While phase one of the operation may be over, our resolve to find permament, workable and holistic solutions to crime issues in Townsville is as strong as ever,” Minister Byrne said.

“The Palaszczuk Government and the Queensland Police Service are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Townsville residents – and this is one way we are delivering on that commitment.”

 ENDS

Media contacts:

Minister Byrne’s Office:                      0478 325 738

Police Media:                                      3015 2444