CRIME Stoppers and NSW Police are urging the community to continue to speak up and report crime.
This encouragement follows News Of The Area’s report last week about an apparent increase in youth crime in Wauchope.
Residents say there has been a lack of police action in response to their multiple calls.
Crime Stoppers and NSW Police want people to continue reporting what they know.
Whether it’s crimes like trespassing, illegal hunting, theft, physical assault, or online offences such as child exploitation, unwanted contact, cyberbullying, and scams.
Outside of triple zero, Crime Stoppers offers an accessible and confidential way for the public to share information, ensuring it reaches the appropriate police authorities for action.
“We often see people are willing to share information online, such as through online community groups, so neighbours and the local community are aware of what’s happening in their neighbourhood,” said CEO, Crime Stoppers NSW Peter Price AM.
“And while that information can help [people] be aware of suspicious activity, sharing that information with Crime Stoppers ensures it’s passed on to police so the appropriate action can be taken.”
After telling NOTA last week that over 40 calls to police were left unanswered or de-prioritised during ongoing youth disturbances and safety concerns last month, Wauchope resident Amy Murphy has lost faith in reporting to police.
“Residents who spoke to the highway patrol officer were informed that the police were simply too busy to attend, and the triple-zero calls were marked in their system as a low priority”, said Amy.
“[We’re] tired of dealing with the aftermath of these teenagers, who think that they are above the law, or know that no matter what they do, they will receive minimal to no punishment.”
There are several ways the community can report crime in the local area, including contacting the Police Assistance
Line (PAL), visiting or calling the local police station, reaching out to Crime Stoppers, or calling Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
The community is encouraged to report any theft to PAL on 131 444, and report suspicious or actual criminal information to Crime Stoppers at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ or call 1800 333 000.
By Rikki WALLER
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