Thursday 8 February 2024
The WA Police Union has denounced remarks made by Premier Roger Cook today regarding youth crime. Premier Cook emphasises the importance of police presence on the streets for enhanced protection, however, this assertion is flawed, as police are already actively patrolling and are themselves impacted by youth crime.
Statistics on juvenile offences and assault rates underscore the daily challenges faced by officers. This is just one of the contributing factors to the high level of officers leaving the force, thus leaving WA Police struggling to retain officers in the long term. When the justice system fails to support them, officers feel disillusioned by the system.
Although ABS recorded offenders’ data shows the number of young offenders in WA has declined over the last 7 years, the offending by 10-14 year olds has increased as has the level of violence.
Offender Rate = Number of young offenders per 100k population (aged 10 to 17 years)
Paul Gale, President of the WA Police Union, expresses disappointment with the Premier's comments, deeming them ignorant.
"I disagree with Premier Cook's assertion that Perth does not have a youth crime issue.
“While I agree that apprehending and prosecuting offenders sends a strong message against violence, it contradicts the nationwide initiative to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility. This push will allow those under the age of 12 to get away with crimes, no matter the magnitude.
“Consequently, this 11-year-old perpetrator will evade accountability for their heinous actions and may be at risk of reoffending in the future, which is unacceptable.
"More comprehensive measures are needed to deter youth crime and prevent repeat offences," says President Gale.
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Reney Omar – M: 0484 135 951 or E: reney.omar@wapu.org.au
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