Northern Territory Crime On Rise

In a tangle of spin that defies credibility, Minister Toyne, claims the increase in violent crime as a result of successful police strategies which has resulted in more reports. To follow that logic Palmerston residents are not pulling their weight. If Palmerston figures are down slightly then residents are failing to report assaults! What a wicked web we weave when we try to deceive.

CLP Deputy Leader, Terry Mills said the latest crime statistics demonstrate yet again that the Martin Labor Government continues to fail to protect the community.

Since the same time last year offences against a person (excluding homicide) have increased by nearly 24%, with assaults up 25%, personal robbery up 90% and sexual assaults 11% total overall offences against a person are up 24%

From December 2005 until March 2006 sexual assaults have increased by nearly 15% from 62 to 71.

"No matter how much spin the Labor Government puts on these latest crime statistics they tell a disturbing story of a Government failing to safeguard the public.

"It is a fundamental priority of any Government to protect its citizens and this Government talks a lot about taking action and it has more money than ever to take action, but it just keeps failing to deliver for Territorians,” Mr Mills said.

Mr Mills said the Labor Government has been beating its chest over its claim to reduce property offences, however on a Quarter to Quarter comparison the trend is rising.

"This Government knows that it is in trouble because it won't make the tough decisions and take decisive action. All the Martin Labor Government has to offer is more spin and diversions,” Mr Mills said.

2006-06-28