The Crime and Misconduct Commission has welcomed the Police Commissioner’s announcement of a series of strategies which aim to improve policing services on the Gold Coast.
CMC Assistant Commissioner, Misconduct, Warren Strange says today’s announcement echoes consultation between the CMC and the Queensland Police Service regarding issues identified by the CMC’s Operation Tesco.
‘This operation targeted allegations of police misconduct on the Gold Coast. The CMC has been in discussions with the QPS, including the Police Commissioner, and we welcome today’s announcement which takes on board our view that certain issues can be remedied now,’ Mr Strange said.
‘It is in the public interest, and that of all police officers, that the QPS takes strong decisive action, as outlined in today’s announcement, to improve policing services on the Gold Coast and ultimately enhance the integrity of the QPS.’
Mr Strange says Operation Tesco is a clear example of close collaboration between the CMC and the QPS.
‘Over the past few months, eight officers from the Metropolitan North and South Regions and the Ethical Standards Command have been assisting the CMC to ensure that Operation Tesco is finalised as soon as possible. It has been hard but rewarding work, and their contribution has been greatly valued.’
Mr Strange says Operation Tesco is now moving into its final stages, which includes holding a public hearing next month.
‘It will complement new policing strategies and assist the QPS in ongoing efforts to improve management of identified risks,’ Mr Strange said.
‘The hearing won’t gather further evidence of alleged police misconduct on the Gold Coast — its intention is to look into systemic issues identified by evidence already gathered,’ Mr Strange said.
‘It’s clear that major change needed to happen and we have supported the QPS move to implement necessary reform. Our hearing will assist this process.’
The CMC’s public hearing will highlight issues identified by Operation Tesco. These include allegations of inappropriate associations with criminals; drug use; misuse of confidential police information and resources; leadership and supervision; and acceptance of gratuities.
Senior police and independent professionals, including experts from other jurisdictions, will be called to provide insight into effective ways the police service can improve.
The hearing at the CMC’s Green Square premises (Fortitude Valley) commences on 20 September 2010 and is expected to run several days. It is open to the public and media. Separate advisories related to media arrangements and public release of submissions to follow.
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