Media release – Felix Ellis, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, 14 August 2023
High visibility police patrols to keep Kingborough safe
The Rockliff Liberal Government is committed to keeping Tasmania as one of the safest places to live in the country.
Minister Felix Ellis, Inspector Colin Riley and Kingborough Mayor Paula Wriedt stand together today in Kingston to highlight the importance of reporting crime.
“Tasmania Police and the Tasmanian Government are committed to working with our local councils, communities and businesses to crack down on crime and anti-social behaviour,” Minister Ellis said.
“This includes high visibility patrols by Tasmania Police.
“Kingston is one of our safest communities, however, there has unfortunately been an increase in some property crime recently including thefts from homes, sheds and retail outlets.
“Reporting crime, even minor crime, helps Tasmania Police to target offenders. Enough is enough and offenders are being warned that Tasmania Police will be actively targeting you,” Minister Ellis said.
“Since we formed government in 2014, we have doubled police numbers at Kingston Station, and increased the frontline across the state. Our goal is to have an additional 334 police officers in Tasmania by July 2026.
“However, keeping Tasmanian communities safe is up to every individual and every business so please be aware and alert to any suspicious activity.”
“Anyone who witnesses any suspicious or criminal activity should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 (non-urgent) or Triple Zero in an emergency, and officers can quickly investigate.”
“Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or by submitting an anonymous tip at crimestoppers.com.au.”
Media release – Kingborough Council, 15 August, 2023
Report it to the Police
Kingborough Council and Kingston Police have teamed up to encourage the community to report all crimes no matter how small to the Tasmanian Police.
Kingborough Mayor, Paula Wriedt said several community members had shared their stories of crimes being committed, such as car breaks in and vandalism in Kingborough.
“Of all the incidents being retold to me, none had been reported to the police either because nothing was stolen or because the victim believed that the crimes were too small,” Cr Wriedt said.
“I am now encouraging our community along with our new Kingston Police Inspector, Colin Riley to report any crimes to the police, no matter how small.
“Without accurate records of thefts, vandalism and antisocial behaviour Tasmania Police can’t accurately assign resources to address any concerns.”
Inspector Colin Riley from Kingston Police said from a policing perspective, Kingborough is one of the safest communities.
“Police cannot be everywhere all the time, and we need the community to help us by reporting incidents,” Inspector Riley said.
“Please don’t be nervous or concerned about reporting matters to police, we want to hear from you – your information can assist us in keeping our community safe.”
“Non-urgent matters can be reported to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444, where they will be triaged for urgency and attended to.”
Mayor Wriedt said Inspector Riley attends the Council’s Community Safety in an advisory capacity.
“It is terrific to have Inspector Riley on this Committee as he provides valuable insight and advice on how Council and community can address safety issues particular to Kingborough.”
Kingborough’s Safety Committee meet up every 2 months to discuss safety issues in the community.
