LOCAL MP Melinda Pavey will lobby for a strong share of additional police numbers – in the wake of public angst about break-ins at Kempsey and South West Rocks.
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Mrs Pavey said she would also like to see cash flow for a specialist police drug squad in the area.
The State Government has announced plans to boost police ranks by 1500 officers over the next four years – a move welcomed by the Police Association, though it’s unsure what this will mean exactly for the Mid North Coast Local Area Command.
“To ensure police have greater capability to keep a watchful eye on known offenders against children, all 58 police commands across NSW will receive an additional officer to monitor offenders on the Child Protection Register,” Police Minister Troy Grant said.
“The elderly are also at greater risk of abuse and unfortunately, like other forms of domestic violence, it is often perpetrated by a trusted family member, partner or carer.
“To combat this cowardly crime, each and every command will also receive a specialist Elder Abuse Prevention Officer.”
Mrs Pavey welcomed the announcement, and said she is looking for specific measures locally.
“I will continue to support local police and fight for more resources, in particular the allocation of funds for a local drug squad,” the Member for Oxley said.
“This follows local concerns over an increase in break and enters around Kempsey, South West Rocks and Macksville.”
Mrs Pavey said she had been in regular contact with Superintendent Paul Fehon from Mid North Coast Local Area Command, who said the outbreak of crime was largely due to an increase in heroin use.
This had subsequently resulted in criminals being desperate for cash to fund their habit.
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“I also acknowledge the effort local police have made in catching those responsible,” Mrs Pavey said.
“In fact, local police in the past month have arrested five people – two armed robbers, one heroin dealer and two for break and enters.
“Much of the latest increase in the criminal activity is due to about four people with a big heroin habit of about $500 a day.”
Mrs Pavey said she acknowledged and thanked local police for starting an awareness campaign ‘It’s not our Way’, which alerts school students and their families of the dangers of heroin and calling out bad behaviour, as well as criminals who operate in that space.
“The harrowing stories that people have shared with me of having their homes broken into are disturbing,” Mrs Pavey said.
“We must work together to rid our communities of these criminals and I share the view of local police that a drug squad is the best way forward.
“I will continue my fight to support them and our local community.”