A specialised police taskforce has reached a major milestone after arresting and charging 5,000 people since launching in 2018.
Taskforce Saturate has become a permanent fixture in the Southern District’s crime-fighting arsenal after what was meant to be just a trial eight years ago.
The district of the police force spans from the greater Hobart region through the Huon and Derwent Valley to parts of the east coast and covering much of the state’s south and central highlands.
“Taskforce Saturate began as a three-month initiative, with officers seconded from various areas to deliver fast, focused results,” Acting Commander Andrew Keane said.
“The operation proved so effective it was extended, and it has remained an ongoing part of our frontline crime reduction strategy ever since.”
The taskforce targets re-offenders, habitual bail offenders and crime hot spots across the region.
Led by a permanent sergeant and supported by four to five rotating constables, the unit has provided operational experience to 152 officers over eight years.
“Beyond its core focus on recidivist offenders, Taskforce Saturate also provides critical support to uniform, criminal investigation, and drug and firearms services,” Keane said.
The taskforce has arrested and charged 5,016 people for 15,039 offences during its eight-years.
An additional 480 people have been charged with 2,539 offences through joint operations with other policing areas.
“Offenders charged by Saturate include those responsible for serious and minor crime, drug and firearms offences, traffic matters, family violence, failure to appear, and breaches of bail,” Keane said.
“These results speak to the breadth of harm the taskforce helps to prevent every day.”
