news, local-news, bendigo, firearms, police, regional, victoria, community safety statement, Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton, lisa neville

SIX hundred Victorian police officers will be equipped with semi-automatic firearms, including in four regional locations, to respond to threats such as terrorism and armed offenders. Police Minister Lisa Neville and Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton today announced $25 million for specialist training and access to longarm firearms. It is not yet known where in regional Victoria the firearms will be distributed. The decision will rest with the chief commissioner, who is expected to take distance into account in determining where to place the resources. Members of operations response units are understood to be the preferred candidates for the firearms. The weapons are not expected to be used in routine patrols. Terrorism and critical incidents were among the situations the state government and Victoria Police believed police could use the extra layer of protection and capability. “We’re making sure police have everything they need – the powers, the equipment and technology – to tackle serious and organised crime, and keep us safe,” Ms Neville said. The firearms were among a suite of announcements accompanying the state’s second Community Safety Statement. Funding for the $115 million package is to be derived from the upcoming state budget. A $24 million investment in new online investigators and cyber technology to target organised crime, money laundering, child exploitation and illegal drug and firearm distribution is included in the package. A new police station in Melbourne will cost taxpayers $36 million, with an additional $5 million allocated to new mobile police stations. Crime prevention measures such as Neighbourhood Watch, Crime Stoppers and the National Motor Vehicle Reduction Council have attracted an investment of $25 million. The prevention and response to organised crime and terrorism are high in the state’s priorities. Police and the government also intend to crack down on crimes against police, drug dealing, young offenders, and Community Corrections Orders for ‘serious criminals’. “We’re further restricting the use of Community Corrections Orders to make sure that people who commit the most serious violent crimes get jail time,” Ms Neville said. Compulsory treatment laws will be introduced for people with multiple and complex needs such as addiction who pose a risk of violence to others. “This is a comprehensive plan delivering the police, protection and prevention that together will drive down crime and reduce harm in Victoria,” Ms Neville said.

https://nnimgt-a.akamaihd.net/transform/v1/crop/frm/CCCaSEL78QLqvgEaPeVcbz/76d7f55e-c484-4fca-aef1-3f6549010f4c.jpg/r0_82_5167_3001_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg