Central Coast police in blitz against alcohol-fuelled crime

ALCOHOL-RELATED crime in Australia costs $1.7 billion a year and Central Coast police are about to do more to tackle the problem.

They will be joining police from around Australia and New Zealand today and over the weekend in Operation Unite - a major blitz on alcohol-fuelled crime.

Hot-spots on the coast to be targeted will include Umina Beach, Terrigal, Norah Head and Toukley.

But extra police will be joining normal patrols to make sure all areas are covered.

This is the first time an operation like this has been conducted.

“There is a correlation between alcohol and the offences of malicious damage, domestic violence and assault, not only in juveniles but across the broader

spectrum of the community,” Brisbane Water acting crime manager Greg Thomas said.

“It is a problem on the coast, but no matter where you go, rural areas or the CBD, the story is the same.”

“Nearly all the stories reported by the media about violence and all those other issues you can guarantee that there is alcohol involved.”

“We need to educate parents about keeping tabs on their children, especially if they are under 18. Most probably don’t know what goes on.

“They can’t remain oblivious and hope to reduce alcohol-related violence.”

Issued by Express Advocate Gosford December 11th 2009

http://express-advocate-gosford.whereilive.com.au/news/story/central-coast-police-in-blitz-against-alcohol-fuelled-crime/