Tag: Queensland Police Service

Deception Bay Officer Honoured as Mounted Police Unit Complex Renamed

Photo Credit: ChristianRowanMP/ Facebook

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) today held a poignant ceremony at its Moggill Mounted Police Unit complex, renaming the facility in honour of the late Senior Constable Dave Masters, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty in 2021 while stationed at Deception Bay.

Read: Equipping Deception Bay Youth for Success: A Community Grant in Action

This tribute coincided with the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Queensland Mounted Police, a unit Senior Constable Masters served with distinction.

The Mounted Police Unit, established in 1973 and operating from its current location since 1997, plays a vital role in Queensland’s policing strategy. With 13 staff members and 11 highly trained horses, the unit provides invaluable support to frontline officers across the state.

Mounted Police Unit
Photo Credit: ChristianRowanMP/ Facebook

Senior Constable Masters dedicated a decade of his life to the QPS, showcasing his versatility and commitment through various roles.  Much of his career was spent with the Mounted Police Unit, where he served as a full-time officer for four years. He later transferred to Deception Bay Police Station, continuing to serve the community with unwavering dedication.

Tragically, on 26 June 2021, Senior Constable Masters was fatally injured during an incident involving a stolen vehicle in Deception Bay. He was deploying road spikes to stop the car when the incident occurred.

Mounted Police Unit
Photo Credit: ChristianRowanMP/ Facebook

This renaming serves as a lasting reminder of Senior Constable Masters’ commitment to the Moreton Bay community and his valuable contributions to the Mounted Police Unit. Members of Senior Constable Masters’ family attended the ceremony, highlighting the profound impact his loss has had on both his loved ones and the wider police community.

Minister Mark Ryan acknowledged the significance of the tribute, emphasising that Senior Constable Masters’ legacy will inspire future generations of officers. He stressed that the officer’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Read: Deception Bay in the Crosshairs as New Flight Paths Proposed for Brisbane

Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy also paid tribute to Senior Constable Masters, highlighting his professionalism, courage, and camaraderie.  He stated that the renaming ensures Senior Constable Masters’ memory will be forever etched in the hearts and minds of QPS members and the community. 

He also expressed immense pride in the Queensland Mounted Police and their ongoing contribution to frontline policing.

Published Date 01-October-2024

Major Crackdown on Youth Crime in North Lakes and Surrounds

A sweeping police operation targeting high-risk youth offenders in the North Lakes and surrounding areas has led to the arrest of 20 individuals, including 18 juveniles, on a staggering 64 charges over an intense 11-day period.

Read: North Lakes Home Invasion: Teen Faces Heinous Murder Sentencing for Emma Lovell’s Death

Taskforce Guardian, a rapid response unit dedicated to combating youth crime and enhancing community safety, joined forces with local police in the Moreton district to conduct a comprehensive crackdown. 

From 22 April to 1 May 2024, the taskforce carried out strategic operations, including locating and apprehending alleged young offenders, monitoring bail compliance, and executing proactive patrols in identified high-risk locations.

The joint operation resulted in the arrest of 18 juveniles on 60 charges and two adults on four charges. The charges encompassed a wide range of offences, such as assault occasioning bodily harm, wilful damage, attempted robbery, stealing, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. These arrests were made possible through targeted efforts and close collaboration between the taskforce and local law enforcement.

High-Visibility Patrols

To maintain a strong presence and deter criminal activities, high-visibility patrols were conducted at various public transport stations and shopping centres across suburbs like Kallangur, Petrie, Lawnton, Mango Hill, North Lakes, Deception Bay, and Strathpine. These strategic locations were identified as potential hotspots for youth-related offences.

In addition to enforcement efforts, Taskforce Guardian worked closely with key support services and local resources to engage at-risk young people in relevant programs and services. These initiatives focused on addressing underlying issues through health, education, disability services, and First Nations initiatives, aiming to provide comprehensive support and prevent future offending.

Community Safety Prioritised

Acting Chief Superintendent Adam Guild, the Moreton District Officer, emphasised that the operation’s ultimate goal was to ensure community safety. He stated that the taskforce’s presence bolstered frontline efforts, enabling targeted activities to disrupt and prevent youth offending. 

Mr Guild also highlighted the importance of engaging with local youth, intervening early, referring those in need to appropriate support services, and seeking justice for victims by locating and arresting recidivist offenders.

Read: Kallangur Tradie’s Tragedy Ignites Wave of Community Support

The Moreton Bay police have assured the community that they are committed to addressing the challenging issue of youth crime through a comprehensive approach, combining enforcement efforts with proactive engagement and support services.

Published 14-May-2024