Tanya Thompson, Member for Myall Lakes, announced that communities across regional NSW, including Taree, will see a boost in policing resources as the NSW Police Force launches Operation Soteria – a new initiative aimed at cracking down on escalating youth crime.
Under this operation, 60 dedicated police officers will form rapid response units targeting youth crime hotspots across the state, with an additional 20 officers supplementing the unit through weekly surge operations, bringing the total operational strength to 80 officers.
“Our community has been calling for action to address youth crime, and I am pleased to see a targeted response to tackle this issue head-on,” Mrs Thompson said.
“For too long, repeat offenders have been terrorising families in our region. This operation will send a clear message – crime will not be tolerated in the Myall Lakes.”
Operation Soteria will focus on repeat young offenders aged 11 to 16 involved in serious crimes such as aggravated break-ins, vehicle theft, and ‘post and boast’ offences, where offenders flaunt their crimes on social media.
Mrs Thompson acknowledged the ongoing concerns from residents, particularly in Taree, Old Bar and surrounding areas, about the increasing rate of break-ins and vehicle thefts.
“The current system is failing our communities, and we need tougher laws to prevent repeat offenders from being immediately released on bail.”
Deputy Police Commissioner Paul Pisanos said, “The operational arm of this operation will consist of high-visibility policing, targeting a defined cohort of hundreds of repeat offenders believed to be responsible for 90% of youth crime across regional NSW.
“This is about working to prevent, disrupt and respond to serious violent youth crime and reduce fear in the community.”
Operation Soteria will also work with community leaders to provide regular updates on progress to engage with victims of crime in impacted areas.
“No one should feel unsafe in their own home. This initiative, alongside tougher bail laws, will help restore safety and confidence in regional communities,” Mrs Thompson added.
Taree is one of the first locations in NSW to benefit from this increased police presence, alongside Moree, Tamworth, Dubbo, Orange, Tweed Heads, Coffs Harbour, and Kempsey.
The initial phase of Operation Soteria will run for three months, with ongoing assessments to measure its impact.
