As revellers welcomed in the New Year ACT Policing was highly visible in Canberra with a strong focus on road safety and anti-social behaviour.
New Year’s Eve Operation Commander Superintendent Brett Kidner said it was a challenging night but that police were generally pleased with the behaviour of the crowds.
“Overall people were well-behaved with no major incidents or issues in the Civic, Manuka and Kingston areas. The alcohol-free zones within the city functioned well and provided the setting for a memorable family event,” Superintendent Kidner said.
A total of 76 officers ensured the safety of the Canberra community, including members from ACT Policing’s Regional Targeting Team (RTT).
Police took 39 young people into protective custody, more than double the number from last year, for either intoxication, possession of, or consumption of alcohol. These young people were held by police until released into the care of a parent or guardian.
“It was disappointing taking so many young people into custody, however this may have prevented them from injury and allowed them to get home safely,” Superintendent Kidner said.
By comparison, police took seven intoxicated adults to the ACT Watch House.
In addition to foot patrols, Traffic Operations mobile officers were active throughout the evening and into the early morning of today (Wednesday, January 1). Police more than tripled the number of random breath tests (RBTs) conducted the previous year with a total of 867 screenings. Only two people returning positive results, the highest being 0.104. There were also 14 Traffic Infringement Notices issued.
“We are very pleased with the RBT results this year. It is clear that the general public has taken police advice and made an effort not to drink and drive,” Superintendent Kidner said.
On New Year’s Eve two provisional licence holders were detected travelling at high speed. An 18-year-old O’Connor man was detected travelling at 92km/h in a 60kmh zone, receiving eight demerit points and a fine of $664 during the double demerit period, and a 20-year-old Franklin man was detected travelling at 89km/h in a 60km/h zone. He received six demerit points and a fine of $307.
[Courtesy ACT Policing]
Loading ...
