Residents in the Derwent Valley, particularly New Norfolk, are calling for alternative policing models to address a rising crime wave in the area.
The community has experienced incidents of arson, theft, vandalism and anti-social behaviour in recent months, leaving many residents “living in fear”.
Labor MP Jen Butler is pushing for a community policing model that would allow residents to ‘know and trust’ their local police officers.
“In one of the latest incidents, investigations are underway into a suspected arson attack on a vacant building in New Norfolk,” Butler said.
“This follows repeated break-ins at the New Norfolk Golf Club, New Norfolk Cricket Club and the recent break-in at the newly established Food Pantry, set up by volunteers to help community members struggling with cost-of-living pressures.”
Butler said “broken promises and lack of action on police numbers” from the state government have led to the increase, with residents now calling for 24/7 manned policing in the area and a complete overhaul of the justice system.
The newly opened state-of-the-art police station in New Norfolk is seen as inadequate, as the community had requested permanent policing and police who understand the local community.
In a statement, Tasmania Police Acting Inspector Tony Stewart said police were “committed to protecting the community, through combating anti-social and criminal behaviour”.
“New Norfolk Station has 14 officers, an increase of five police officers since 2014, and there is also one officer allocated to each of the nearby stations of Bushy Park, Hamilton, and Maydena,” Stewart said.
“When New Norfolk members conclude duty or require additional resources, they are supported by police from Bridgewater Station, which operates 24/7.”
