Tasmania Police has set-up a new Youth Taskforce designed to tackle shop stealing and anti-social behaviour on Hobart’s eastern shore. 

Inspector Andrew Keane said the taskforce – which is a mixture of uniform and plain clothes officers – will complement existing police patrols with an emphasis on shopping centres, bus malls and other public spaces during the festive season.

“Over the past twelve months, Clarence Division has seen an increase in shoplifting and anti-social behaviour, with a significant number of incidents committed by a small group of repeat youth offenders,” said Inspector Keane. 

“Police will not tolerate anti-social and illegal behaviours, nor will we tolerate the propensity of some youth offenders to use violence when confronted by retail staff – retailers have the right to come to work without worrying about being threatened.”

“We know that traditional policing methods of arresting and charging youths will not work in isolation.”

“While the Taskforce will be taking a strict approach to repeat offenders, they will also be working in partnership with partner agencies and key shopping precincts to engage with young offenders and divert them away from the criminal justice system and further offending.”

“Tasmania Police is committed to public safety – everyone has the right to feel and be safe in our community.” 

Anyone who witnesses anti-social or illegal behaviour is asked to report it to Tasmania Police immediately on 131 444, so matters can be quickly addressed.