The NSW Police Force response to rural crime in Coffs Harbour and the Clarence Valley will be strengthened with an extra new Rural Crime Investigator position rolling out across the Coffs/Clarence Police District as part of the biggest increase in police numbers in more than 30 years.
Nationals MP for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh and Clarence Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis said the new position would create a unit of two specialist investigators.
“Our region is generally safe, thanks to the excellent work of our growing numbers of police officers and this newest increase is particularly welcome because of its focus on crime that is typical to our area,” they said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said the positions deliver on the NSW Government’s $583 million commitment to community safety through the roll-out of 1,500 extra police positions over four years.
“Rural crime specialist investigators focus on a range of crime, whether it’s theft of stock, grain or wool, rural arson and fraud, firearm offences, cruelty to animals or trespassing,” Mr Toole said.
“These crimes affect farmers, their families and entire livelihoods, so it’s critical we have the support and resources needed to ensure regional communities continue to thrive.
“These investigators have lived and worked on the land and continue to play a critical role in building positive relationships between police and the farming community, as well as supporting victims of crime.”
