Tasmania Police Latest News

Abalone meat seizure

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 16:25:00 +1000

On Tuesday the 18/6/2013, Tasmania Police Marine officers intercepted a man with a large quantity of illegally taken abalone meat in the Launceston area.

The intercept is the result of a targeted operation by marine officers, with assistance and information provided by other jurisdictions.

The man, from NSW, was found in possession of a commercial quantity of green lip and black lip abalone meat.

He has been questioned and will be proceeded against by summons. Investigations are continuing.

Tasmania Police Facebook Page

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 15:55:00 +1000

You can now connect with Tasmania Police on Facebook.

“The Facebook page will complement the existing communication strategies of Police and presents an opportunity for us to provide policing news directly to the community,” said the Commissioner of Police, Darren Hine.

Information will be posted from media releases, as well as news on police campaigns, road safety and other advice, crime trends and more.

“Facebook is also an additional tool for Tasmania Police to deliver critical and timely information directly to the community in emergencies,” said Mr Hine.

“Social media will allow us to highlight good police work and enhance community relationships. It’s a great way for Police to promote community confidence and inform the community directly from a trusted source.

“We can also use Facebook to seek public assistance when required, for example when someone is reported missing, or in criminal investigations,” said Mr Hine.

“It’s a powerful tool for engagement with the people we serve, and I encourage you to ‘like’ the official Tasmania Police Facebook Page.”

Charity Trust support to 4 year old Trystan

Thu, 20 Jun 2013 15:53:00 +1000

Trystan is a 4 year old boy, full of happiness and looking forward to going home to Ulverstone soon. The Tasmania Police Charity Trust met Trystan in late 2012, while he was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for leukaemia.

Burglary Australian Chainsaw Products

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 12:30:00 +1000

At 3.35am on Wednesday12 June 2013 there was a burglary at Australian Chainsaw Products, Connector Park Drive, Kings Meadows. Twelve new Stihl chainsaws were stolen from the business during the burglary.

It is believed that a number of persons are responsible for the burglary, and that they used a stolen blue Daewoo Nubira sedan during the commission of the burglary. The car was later burnt out at Canning Street, Launceston.

Launceston Criminal Investigation Branch is currently investigating the matter and would like to hear from anyone who may have information regarding this matter. Police are particularly interested to hear from anyone who may have been offered new chainsaws for sale.

Information can be given directly to the Launceston CIB on 6336 3701 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Tasmania Police Charity Trust

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:55:00 +1000

The Tasmania Police Charity Trust was established in December 2006 with a goal of fundraising to provide assistance to members of the community in need, including nominated charities and disadvantaged individuals in Tasmania.

Aggravated Armed Robbery Derwent Tavern

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:37:00 +1000

At approximately 6.20pm on Sunday 16/6/2013, police were called to the Derwent Tavern, Old Main Road, Bridgewater in response to emergency calls relating to an armed offender. An unknown male offender has entered the Tavern, wearing a light coloured balaclava, dark clothing and armed with what appeared to be a firearm. The offender has demanded money from the staff at the Tavern and left the scene with an undisclosed sum of money. The male was last seen heading towards the train lines behind the Tavern.

There were a small number of patrons in the hotel at the time and neither staff nor patrons were injured during the incident.

If anyone has information, which could assist Police please call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or Glenorchy CIB on 131444.

Release of ABS statistics

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:20:00 +1000

New figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate that Tasmania’s victimisation rate remains the lowest in the country for a number of offences.

Recorded Crime – Victims Australia 2012 contains statistics on crime victimisation for a number of selected offences recorded by police for the 2012 calendar year.

The latest survey shows that Tasmania’s rates for the following offence categories were the lowest in the country:

Manslaughter
Sexual Assault
Kidnapping / Abduction
Armed Robbery
Unarmed Robbery
Blackmail / Extortion and
Other theft.

In the categories of Attempted Murder and Unlawful Entry with Intent, Tasmania’s rates were below the national average.

In 2012 assaults in Tasmania decreased by 5.2% from the previous year. That follows a decrease of 2.9% the previous year. 64.5% of victims of Assault knew their offender. Sexual assault decreased by 28.4% in 2012, following a 24.2% decrease the previous year.

Motor vehicle theft decreased by 22.5% in 2012, following a 4.2% decrease in 2011.

“It is pleasing to see the rate of assaults continues to decrease along with motor vehicle theft and we’ll continue to work with members of the public and other community groups in these areas,” Mr Cowling said.

The national figures show there were 89 armed robberies in 2012, an increase of 29 offences (48.3%) following a 24 offences decrease (28.6%) in 2011. There have been between 40 and 100 armed robberies recorded for each year from 2002 to 2012. Armed robberies most often involved a knife (53.9%) with firearms used in 20.2% in 2012.

“The number of offences can significantly fluctuate each year as it is a low volume offence type. In each year from 2000 to 2012 Tasmania’s armed robbery rate was well below the national average,” said Acting Assistant Commissioner Richard Cowling.

“This year the number of armed robberies is currently trending below last year’s figures.

“Tasmania Police prioritises the investigation of these incidents and continues to implement effective strategies to reduce armed robberies and identify and bring offenders before the courts,” he said.

Tasmania’s clearance rates were higher than the national average for all offence categories.

Yacht burglaries

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:57:00 +1000

Hobart Police are currently investigating a number of burglaries from vessels berthed at the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania.

Initial enquiries indicate that at approximately 01:00am on Wednesday the 12 June 2013 two males unlawfully entered the Derwent Sailing Squadron and removed a dinghy which they then used to access vessels berthed at the Royal Yacht Club.

Eleven vessels have been boarded with entry gained to three, from which diving and marine equipment with a value of approximately $2000 was stolen. These items were later recovered nearby by police.

Anyone who may have seen two males acting suspiciously in the Sandy Bay Road/Marieville Esplanade area are urged to contact police.

Information can be passed anonymously via Crime Stoppers on telephone number 1800 333 000.

Theft of CCTV cameras

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:46:00 +1000

The Launceston area has recently experienced an increase in the theft of CCTV cameras. The cameras have been removed from external locations on a number of private, businesses and government buildings.

Tasmania Police would like to advise all owners of CCTV cameras to take precautions with the security of such devices to minimise the likelihood of the items being stolen or damaged.

In addition, an accurate description and serial numbers of all items should be recorded. This greatly assists police in returning any recovered property to the rightful owner.

Launceston Police recently located a number of CCTV cameras however some of the items cannot be identified correctly due to lack of a recorded serial number or a poor description.

Any persons who may have information on any criminal activity, including the stealing of CCTV cameras, is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Operation Unification Conclusion

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:11:00 +1000

Operation Unification – targeting illicit firearms has concluded, but members of the community are being reminded that an amnesty for handing in firearms in Tasmania remains in place permanently.

For the past two weeks Operation Unification has been undertaken in all policing jurisdictions around the country, raising community awareness about the dangers of illicit firearms.

“Information provided by the public is vital in helping us solve crime and over the past fortnight we have been encouraging members of the community to contact Crime Stoppers with any information they may have regarding illicit firearms,” said Detective Inspector David Plumpton.

As part of Operation Unification, Tasmania Police has conducted a number of searches Statewide. During the searches 33 weapons have been seized and 17 people have been proceeded against for a variety of charges, including Possession of firearms without a licence, Possess unregistered firearm, Possess shortened firearm and Possession of ammunition.

“We thank members of the public for making the calls to Crime Stoppers and all information has been acted upon,” said Inspector Plumpton.

“Operation Unification has concluded but we continue to work on removing illicit firearms from within the community.

“We take any incident where firearms are involved extremely seriously and remind members of the community they can report information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 at any time and remain anonymous,” he said.

Tasmania has a permanent amnesty for handing in firearms. The amnesty, under the Firearms Act 1996, allows any unauthorised firearms to be handed in to a police station with no action taken in relation to the illegal possession of the firearms.

Tasmania Police regularly conducts firearms checks. In the last financial year to date more than 3000 inspections have been undertaken. Further information on safe storage of firearms can be found on the Tasmania Police website on www.police.tas.gov.au

New Devonport Station Complex

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:48:00 +1000

The new state-of-the-art Devonport Police Station complex has opened its doors to the community.

“The new Devonport Police Station provides a modern well-equipped workplace from which Police and the State Emergency Service can provide quality services to the community,” said Commissioner of Police, Darren Hine.

The modern policing facility comprises four buildings; three are newly constructed and the former Devonport City Council “Imaginarium Building” has been refurbished.

“These integrated facilities, design and artworks all combine to make an impressive building for the 24 hour station and between 80 and 90 personnel who will work from here,” he said.

The complex will house a main police station building where Uniform, CIB, Prosecution, Drug and Divisional administration services will be located. It will also include a major incident room, conference room, charge rooms and custody suites.

The refurbished “Imaginarium Building” will provide a space for modern forensic facilities, an indoor vehicle examination bay, integrated SES training facilities and offices, and secure specialist storage facilities

The Minister for Police and Emergency Management Minister, David O’Byrne, said the Tasmanian Government’s committed to providing facilities that meet the needs of contemporary policing and local communities.

“Good effective policing involves many things – including strong training, quality equipment, and efficient facilities,” Mr O’Byrne said.

“We’re providing $4.5 million to fund new police recruitment in the State Budget, so it’s important to ensure facilities are large and adaptable enough, as well as efficient into the future.

The Devonport complex will ensure that Tasmania Police have the facilities they need to do their work, which ultimately maintains Tasmania as one of the safest communities in the country.

The build has followed ecologically sustainable design initiatives wherever possible endeavouring to reduce the Department’s carbon footprint.

Tasmanian small business has played a huge part in the new complex, with local companies being awarded the contracts for construction, furniture and fittings, and artworks. The build contract was awarded to Mead Constructions “Mead Con” of Spreyton and works commenced in April last year.

The total budget for the new complex was $6.235M.

New firearms database

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 16:32:00 +1000

Tasmania Police has this week implemented a new firearms database.

Tasmania Police is responsible for administration of the Firearms Act 1996, including firearms registrations, licensing, firearms storage inspections and Firearms Registry maintenance.

The new Firearms and Weapons Data System provides significant improvements including the electronic processing of firearm storage inspections.

Firearm relocations will also be recorded electronically, ensuring information on firearms seized or surrendered for destruction or safekeeping is available in real time.

“The new system will provide efficiencies in both paperwork and workflow as its functionality and design is aligned with Department of Police and Emergency Management applications,” said Commander of Operations Support, Glenn Frame.

“The system, which is available to authorised personnel, also has enhanced search and security features,” said Commander Frame.

“I would also like to reiterate our reassurance to the community that despite persistent rumours there is no evidence that firearm thefts are linked to a breach of the database.

“Firearms were stolen in 1.6% of the burglaries in Tasmania this financial year, while almost 21,000 firearms licences were renewed last year and a further 6,000 will be renewed this year,” said Commander Frame.

“We take firearm thefts very seriously and anyone with information on thefts or the location of illegal firearms is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Cafe robbery charges laid

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:44:00 +1000

Police have today charged a 30 year old Risdon Vale man with Robbery relating to an incident at the Ephah Café in Liverpool Street, Hobart this morning.

At approximately 6.30am, a man entered the Ephah Café and removed cash from the till. After a brief confrontation with the owner the man left and was seen heading on foot towards the Hobart Bus Mall. Police attended the Bus Mall and shortly afterwards received information that a person matching the description of the offender was seen getting on a Metro Bus travelling towards the Eastern Shore.

As a result of this information, officers from the Bellerive Division have attended the Rosny Bus Mall where this person was located and upon seeing police he has fled on foot for a short distance before being apprehended.

An amount of cash consistent with the amount stolen was located on the man, who was taken to Hobart police station where he was interviewed by Detectives from Hobart CIB and subsequently charged and detained to appear in court.

No weapon was used during the robbery.

Any person who may have witnessed this incident or has any relevant information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Business Burglaries Solved

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:51:00 +1000

Glenorchy CIB Detectives have today charged a 30 year old Risdon Vale man with a number of recent business burglaries, including the Subway store in Moonah and the United Service Station, Clarence Street, Howrah, which occurred on the 14^th May 2013.

The male was also charged with a burglary and stealing at Dawes Automotive, Moonah, which occurred on the 9^th June 2013. The business incurred building damage costs in excess of $20,000, sustained during the commission of these offences.

The male will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court later today on these and other offences.

Tasmania Police would like to remind members of the public to report anything that is ‘not right’ and may be suspicious criminal activity to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Damage at the Botanical Gardens

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:39:00 +1000

Hobart Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding significant damage which has been caused to the Visitor Centre at the Botanical Gardens overnight.

Initial enquiries indicate that at approximately 12.30am on Wednesday 12 June 2013 four (4) males unlawfully entered the grounds of the gardens, via the Lower Domain Highway Car Park and placed a hose under the front door of the Visitor Centre.

The hose was left running for a period of over 7 hours which has resulted in significant water damaged being caused to the areas of the shop and training room. Water has also leaked through the floor into a library area where extensive damage has been caused to archival records.

The cost of the damage has not been fully estimated at this time and a clean-up operation is underway. Hobart Police are requesting public assistance in the identification of the 4 people responsible for this damage. Information can be passed anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

“This is wanton vandalism and Hobart Police will do everything they can to identify the persons responsible.

“Someone knows who is responsible for this damage. Police would like to hear from you if you know anything or hear anything in relation to this incident,” said Inspector Glen Woolley, Officer-in-Charge of the Hobart Division.

Police Assistance Line 131 444

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:35:00 +1000

The Police Assistance Line (131 444) is a national number for members of the public to contact police for non-emergencies. For example, call 131 444 to report irresponsible driving or a noisy party. 131 444 calls are charged at a local rate (except for mobiles).

Police Participate in Crackdown on Heavy Vehicles

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:35:00 +1000

Police are warning that they will be cracking down on heavy vehicle companies and drivers who operate unsafely. This warning comes as police, working with road, transport and safety agencies across Australia and New Zealand launch Operation AUSTRANS (20 May – 16 June 2013). As well as speed compliance, Operation AUSTRANS will also be targeting the heavy vehicle road transport sector on road safety issues such as fatigue, vehicle compliance and drug use.

Chief Executive Officer of the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency (ANZPAA), Jon White says that unsafe operation of heavy vehicles can have serious consequences because of their size and weight. ANZPAA is the agency that serves Police Commissioners across Australia and New Zealand. “Police recognise that while heavy vehicle drivers contribute to only about 40 per cent of crashes in which they are involved in the risk of death or serious injury in these crashes is higher. Heavy vehicles can weigh up to 65 tonnes and when they collide with another smaller vehicle, such as a car or motorbike, the results can be catastrophic,” says Mr White.

Police will be taking action - on major highways, on suburban streets, and on country back roads to ensure heavy vehicles are being operated safely.

Although police will be focusing on heavy vehicles, all motorists are reminded that they should also take care around heavy vehicles when on the road. For example, larger vehicles do not have the same braking or manoeuvring ability as other road users.

“Abrupt lane changes, tailgating, speeding and unsafe overtaking around heavy vehicles have a higher chance of tragic consequences because of their large mass and weight,” says Mr White.

Police aim to reduce illegal and unsafe activity in the heavy vehicle industry and ensure safety and compliance standards and procedures are met. Operation AUSTRANS is part of the commitment by Australian and New Zealand Police Commissioners to the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety.

Source: Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency (ANZPAA)

World Blood Donor Day

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 10:26:00 +1000

World Blood Donor Day, celebrated on 14 June every year, serves to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products and to thank voluntary unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood, which helps to save millions of lives.

Queen's Birthday Honours

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:10:00 +1000

His reputation precedes him and many people who have been rescued by Inspector Stuart Scott will applaud his recognition in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Serving Tasmania Police for 37 years, Inspector Scott began as a Junior Constable in 1976.

Inspector Scott’s capacity to take on new roles has served him and the service well. His career has included notable stints within District Support Services in Launceston and Hobart where his passion for social reform has seen positive differences made in multi-agency liaison and Public Order.

“By far and away the most rewarding thing about working for Tasmania Police is working as part of effective teams,” said Inspector Scott.

“It is something I feel we do really well, especially in areas like Search and Rescue, Uniform Divisions and Community Partnerships - for me that is where the real rewards are,” he said.

Inspector Scott is possibly better known for his work within Search and Rescue, combining his passion for outdoor activities and wilderness adventure with skills and experience.

“I’ve had a good time… haven’t I?” he said.

He was commended by the Royal Human Society for saving a woman who fell into the Derwent River on the 28^th March 1979 at Franklin Wharf. He received a commendation from the Commissioner of Police for courage, professionalism and devotion to duty in relation to the rescue of an injured walker from the slopes of Mt Anne, Tasmania, in 1991.

The Commissioner of Police, Darren Hine, acknowledged Inspector Scott’s outstanding service.

“Throughout Inspector Scott’s career he has received a number of commendations and reports of recognition, these have all had a recurring themes of courage, perseverance and professionalism,” Mr Hine said.

“He has consistently shown loyalty and dedication in the performance of his duties coupled with a strong work ethic and desire to make a positive difference.

“Having not always chosen the easy or popular path Inspector Scott has maintained his course with a strong sense of what he felt was right, combined with his considered opinion, appropriate forethought and respect.

“It is this path which has earned him the respect of his colleagues and all who have worked with him,” he said.

Joint Agency Investigation

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 14:10:00 +1000

A joint agency investigation between Tasmania Police and Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) officers has resulted in charges against two Campbell Town men for a variety of breaches under the Firearms Act and Wildlife Act.

Searches at addresses in Campbell Town resulted in the seizure of 25 firearms, three firearms suppressers (silencers) and protected wildlife/wildlife products, including approximately 120 fallow deer skull caps (antlers) and 50 fully mounted fallow deer heads.

Investigations are continuing and it is expected further charges will be laid.

The investigation has been jointly run by Tasmania Police and DPIPWE since January 2013 within the Southern Midlands/Central Highlands Municipalities in respect to the activities of persons suspected of involvement in the unlawful taking of fallow deer.

Sergeant Rob King of Oatlands Police Station said that the investigation highlights the benefits of inter-agency cooperation and is also an example of the depth of offending in respect to wildlife.

“We have no issue in persons undertaking shooting as a past-time so long as they comply with the rules,” said Sergeant King.

“What we want to avoid is people with access to high powered rifles thinking they can disregard the regulations,”

“All the firearms seized were registered, however modifications, unlawful attachments and the suspected commission of wildlife offences means that the owner has had his firearms licence put on hold until the outcome of proceedings. As such, the firearms have been seized and the suitability of this person to hold a firearms licence in the future will be subject to review,” he said.

DPIPWE Wildlife Ranger Matthew Jones said that the legal fallow deer industry generates estimated $5,000,000 revenue for Tasmania annually and wildlife regulations are in place to ensure sustainable wildlife management and game control.

“Only persons with a commercial taxidermy licence or written permission from the secretary are permitted to undertake any form of taxidermy and must abide by the requirements placed upon them by legislation,” saidMr Jones.

Anyone who has any information in relation to people undertaking unlawful wildlife activities or has any enquiries in relation to taxidermy is asked to call Wildlife Rangers on 6233 6556.