A new taskforce aimed at tackling crime and antisocial behaviour in Hobart’s CBD has been hailed a success by police after just two months of operation.
Launched on May 1, the taskforce has already resulted in the arrest of 21 people, with three summons and three infringements issued and 44 formal warnings given.
Hobart Inspector John Toohey said of those formal directions, 38 were given to youths.
As part of the taskforce, police officers have been deployed for high-visibility foot patrols in Hobart’s CBD and transport hubs.
Police say this approach has helped keep the public safe, while deterring offenders and resetting behaviours.
“The type of offences detected since the taskforce began, include stealing, disorderly conduct, breach of bail, failing to comply with the direction of a police officer, abusive language, drug possession, common assault, committing a nuisance and unlawful possession of stolen property,” he said.
