A staggering 400 weapons have been seized by police since the passing of Jack’s Law in March.
Jack’s Law was introduced in response to the tragic stabbing death of 17-year-old Jack Beasley in 2019.
It allows police officers to utilise a metal detecting wand in operations in all Safe Night Precincts, at public transit hubs and on public transport.
During the eight months of wanding operations under Jack’s Law, more than 3400 handheld scanner operations were conducted across Queensland, resulting in the scanning of more than 39,000 individuals.
This proactive approach led to the charging of 1070 individuals with almost 1900 offences, predominantly related to weapon and drug matters.
The weapons seized range from kitchen and butcher’s knives, tomahawks, hammers, hunting knives, knuckle dusters, screwdrivers and more.
The success of this initiative underscores its importance in helping curb knife crime and has significantly bolstered efforts to enhance public safety.
In a commitment to protect the community and further combat knife crime and youth offending, the State Government will be progressing new proposed laws in parliament, restricting the sale of knives and other weapons to juveniles.
The new laws aim to support Jack’s Law operations by reducing the accessibility of certain weapons to young people.
Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy acknowledged the significant milestone but said there is still work to do in curbing knife crime.
“The successful seizure of more than 400 weapons is a testament to Jack’s Law and has no doubt saved members of the public from harm,” Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said.
“We are relentlessly focused on disrupting dangerous behaviour to ensure the public can enjoy what Queensland has to offer safely.
“This is just one step in the right direction, our work doesn’t end here.”
Jack’s Law is a testament to the dedicated advocacy of the Jack Beasley Foundation and parents Brett and Belinda Beasley.
This legislation will continue to enable police to detect weapons, deter offending, and protect the community.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
