Disturbing reports of two more sickening and brazen daylight attacks allegedly carried out by young people in Maroochydore has sparked calls for stronger intervention and more resources to crack down on youth crime.
Member for Maroochydore was speaking in response to reports of two separate attacks on 15 year old girls by a group of young girls, aged only 12 and 15.
Ms Simpson said that she has taken this up the issue of public safety at the bus station and on public transport with the State Government calling on them to provide more policing resources and transport senior network officers to ensure that people are safe on our streets and buses.
“No violence should be tolerated in our community, but these daylight attacks, allegedly carried out by children, are deeply disturbing,” Ms Simpson said.
“People have a right to feel safe and be safe on our streets and on public transport. That’s why I’ve called on the Police Minister for more police resource to tackle this culture of violence, abuse and disrespect.
“We also need more transport officers on buses and around bus stops to crack down on fare evasion, anti-social and abusive behaviour as well as support for community agencies who are involved in engagement to break the cycle.”
Ms Simpson said that most young people are good kids and they are themselves more likely to be victims of this street crime. However, public safety is vital for all and everyone needs to be safe – and feel safe – in public spaces and on public transport.
“I support the work our police and other organisations like IFYS (Integrated Family and Youth Services) are doing to work with disengaged young people and I agree there is a need to break the cycle of violence and abuse,” Ms Simpson said.
“This State Labor Government has cut the police budget by $44 million which is unacceptable.
“The State Government needs to reverse these cuts and spend the money at the frontline to provide more dedicated resources to tackle youth crime and disengagement and crack down on this violent and anti-social behaviour.”