News
22 April, 2024
Queensland Police Youth Crime Taskforce Made Permanent
The Miles Government has allocated additional funding to establish the Queensland Police Service’s Youth Crime Taskforce as a permanent operational entity.
The Miles Government has allocated additional funding to establish the Queensland Police Service’s Youth Crime Taskforce as a permanent operational entity. The Taskforce plays a key role in overseeing the QPS’s response to youth crime, implementing the Youth Crime Strategy, and supporting youth justice reforms.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Massingham will continue as Taskforce Commander. The Taskforce has overseen significant initiatives, including the establishment of Taskforce Guardian, a squad of experienced detectives deployed to high-risk areas for saturation policing operations. These efforts have contributed to a reduction in youth offending in several Queensland districts.
The permanent status of the Taskforce will strengthen the ability to respond to youth crime, prioritising prevention and intervention strategies. This includes the continuation of successful programs like Project Booyah and the PCYC hubs, which work to break the cycle of offending. A senior officer has been appointed to coordinate these intervention and prevention initiatives, ensuring at-risk youth continue to receive critical support.