Tasmania Police’s Operation Saturate taskforce has had a significant impact on making our community safer and reducing crime in Southern Tasmania by targeting prolific offenders.

“Following a successful three-month trial, the dedicated 12-strong Operation Saturate taskforce has been extended until the end of 2018 and is achieving significant results,” said Acting Inspector Ian Mathewson.

“Our statistics prove what we’re doing is working to reduce the impact of crime on everyday Tasmanians. The taskforce has now charged 694 people with 1,887 offences and is making a significant contribution to bringing down crime across Southern Tasmania.

“This is about making our community safer for everyone.”

Acting Inspector Mathewson said that the Operation Saturate taskforce had a strong focus on recidivist offenders.

“Through good police work and by monitoring prolific offenders closely, our taskforce members know who recidivist offenders are, their habits, movements and crime of choice. Unfortunately, 110 people have been charged more than once. We will continue with our focus of targeting recidivist offenders until they get our message so we can reduce the impact of crime on our community and have fewer victims of crime,” he said.

Between 1 January and 4 October 2018, Southern Crime has reduced by 9.5% (973 less crimes).

“We are also clearing one in every two crimes and this trend is continuing with the reduction of 331 offences since 1 July,” Acting Inspector Mathewson said.

“There have also been reductions across all major crime categories, although motor vehicle burglary continues to be a concern and this is where we’d like community support.

“While the Operation Saturate taskforce is making a significant contribution to charging offenders and preventing crime, it’s timely to remind people to take steps to target harden their belongings – both their homes and cars – from burglary and theft.

“Thieves are often opportunistic and locking your property and keeping valuables
out of sight are two easy steps that can prevent your belongings from being a target for burglars.”