The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) says we have gone past crisis point when police are being deliberately targeted by offenders.
Last night in Alice Springs, the public and our members were put at significant risk, by a group of youths baiting police and deliberately driving at marked police cars.
NTPA President, Paul McCue, said this was blatant, violent attack on our members.
“We condemn this offending in the strongest terms.
“We would expect the judiciary to impose a punishment that reflects the seriousness of the behaviour of these youths, who have no respect or regard for police who are doing everything they can to keep the community safe.
“Our members did an incredible job ensuring no one was hurt during this rampage. But they are frustrated and fed up with the escalating crime.
“These were kids trying to ram police cars. What more does the Government need to act urgently to ensure our community is safe and our police are protected?
We are calling on the Fyles Government to:
- Transition the 75 Police Auxiliary Liquor Inspectors (PALIs), a majority of which are located in Alice Springs, to Constable positions to bolster our frontline;
- Implement Liquor Licensing Inspectors to undertake duties on takeaway liquor outlets – which was the recommendation of the Riley Review and stop wasting our frontline on bottle shop security; and
- Call an urgent meeting of the working group established by former Police Minister, Nicole Manison - more than 12 months ago - to address sentencing options for offenders who assault frontline workers.
“The community is fed up. Our members are fed up. Something needs to change, urgently,” said Mr McCue.
ENDS
Please direct all media enquiries to NTPA Communications Officer, Kyrrie Blenkinsop +61 (0) 499 017 654 or media@ntpa.com.au
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) is the industrial voice of all members of the Northern Territory Police Force. Read more via www.ntpa.com.au or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NTPoliceAssociation
