A serious spike in criminal activity in Launceston must be treated as a matter of urgency if the Liberals are to be trusted to keep our communities safe.
A drive by-shooting in Kings Meadows overnight is the latest in a series of serious crime incidents that have unfolded in Launceston this past week.
Shadow Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Jen Butler, said communities deserve leadership from their Government, not silence and inaction.
“If the Liberals are serious about the safety of the community and their tough on crime mantra then they must act urgently to address Launceston’s crime spike,” Ms Butler said.
“It is inexcusable that Peter Gutwein has remained silent while a series of disturbing and serious crimes have unfolded in his own backyard.
The 2018-19 Police Corporate Performance Report reveals that last year in Launceston total crime increased by 27 per cent, with serious crime increasing by 17 per cent. Since then public place assaults have increased a further 19 per cent.
Ms Butler said serious understaffing within the Tasmanian police force must be addressed immediately.
“Police officers are working incredibly under extreme pressure and face significant fatigue due to understaffing, long shifts and doing non-core duties and the Liberals are doing nothing about it.
“The Liberals are proving that they are not up to the task of keeping our communities safe.
“Tasmanians deserve better than the Government’s tough on crime spin.”
Jen Butler MP
Shadow Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management
