Ferguson relocated to semi-rural acreage property

Police Minister Judy Spence has appealed for calm as Dennis Ferguson has been relocated to a 10 acre property surrounded by other acreage properties.

Ms Spence said: “Since the Courts chose to release Ferguson as a free man, the Government has stepped in to try and manage him.

“Corrective Services staff assisted police to conduct a scan of the area to determine its suitability.

“The residence is nearly 2 kilometres from a high school, 2.2 kilometres from a primary school, 3.1 kilometres from a riding school, 3.3 kilometres from a child care centre and 3.1 kilometres from a small set of shops.

“Neighbours were notified on Saturday by both Police and Correctives Services that a sex offender may be housed near them.

“A well respected Christian based group has agreed to provide support to Ferguson.

“This is a group experienced at working with prisoners in general and also prisoners who are sex offenders.

“They will support Ferguson 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will work to keep him settled.

“While I understand the concerns over Ferguson, I appeal for calm and I appeal for people to leave him alone.

“Police have appealed for people to stay away from this location and not create a traffic or safety hazard,” Ms Spence said.

Ms Spence has kept Bravehearts founder and executive director Hetty Johnston informed of developments surrounding Ferguson.

Ms Johnston said: “Like everybody we understand that nobody wants this offender living in their community.

“But the reality is that every community has child sex offenders, mostly unknown to community members.

“I understand there will be concerned parents in the area and we will be working with families,” Ms Johnston said.

Bravehearts and Queensland Police will be holding an information session for concerned parents tomorrow. For more information, contact Bravehearts 3290 4474.

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