News
22 May, 2024
Taskforce Guardian Targets Youth Crime, Charges 1,200 Offenders in First Year
In its first 12 months of operation, Taskforce Guardian has charged almost 1,200 young people with more than 4,000 offences and diverted nearly 500 individuals away from the court system, the State Government says.
In its first 12 months of operation, Taskforce Guardian has charged almost 1,200 young people with more than 4,000 offences and diverted nearly 500 individuals away from the court system, the State Government says.
Launched in May 2023, Taskforce Guardian is a specialist youth crime initiative that combines expert youth justice workers with police officers to target high-risk areas. The rapid response team deploys to regions where additional resources are needed to tackle youth crime, working closely with local police to arrest repeat offenders and engage at-risk youth.
In its inaugural year, Taskforce Guardian conducted 71 operations across Queensland, including a recent series of deployments in North Queensland. Between April 1 and May 3, operations in Cairns, Townsville, and Mount Isa resulted in the arrest of 80 young people for 237 offences, while 47 others were directed into restorative justice programs. These deployments focused on a range of initiatives, including bail compliance checks, high-visibility patrols, and youth and family support services.
The Taskforce’s approach also emphasizes diversion from the justice system, with many young people being connected with support services in areas like health, education, disability services, and First Nations programs.
Police Minister Mark Ryan praised the Taskforce’s efforts, noting a decrease in youth offending in regions where the Taskforce has been active. Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Massingham highlighted that Taskforce Guardian is just the beginning, with further operations planned to continue combating youth crime across the state.
