Tackling youth crime will be the top priority for new Southern Police Commander Jason Elmer.
Newly appointed commander Elmer, who leads a team of 11 inspectors, says Tasmania is ‘generally a safe place to live’ but has expressed concern over the increasing youth crime rates in the region.
Recent data indicates a surge in youth offending despite a decline in such incidents over the past decade.
Commander Elmer voiced concerns over repeat youth offenders, saying they are having a ‘significant impact’ on individuals and the community as a whole.
He says police have been in close communication with frontline officers, local businesses, and councils – all of which have expressed their concerns about the rising level of youth offending, especially in the Southern District.
In areas like the Hobart CBD, a dedicated task force has been deployed to combat anti-social behavior and other offenses committed by repeat youth offenders.
Police say they aim to charge and bring these individuals before a Magistrate, utilizing the full extent of the law where necessary and authorized.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any instances of unlawful or anti-social behavior to the police at the time of occurrence.
Reports can be made by calling 131444 or by contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800 333 000 or through their website, crimestopperstas.com.au.
