TEN new probationary constables have commenced duties across the Mid North Coast this week, with six officers posted to Kempsey and four to Port Macquarie.
“Having more boots on the ground in Kempsey and Port Macquarie means greater visibility and more officers available to respond when our community needs them,” said Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp.
“It’s encouraging to see a large number of these new officers are locals to the Mid North Coast. That local knowledge and connection to the community is really valuable and helps build trust from day one.
“While these officers will be based in Kempsey and Port Macquarie during their training, having more constables means greater capacity for police to get out and patrol the wider Hastings and Nambucca valleys.”
Mr Kemp said supporting local police also meant ensuring officers had access to the technology and resources needed to tackle crime.
As part of that push, Mr Kemp has launched a community petition calling on the NSW Government to bring the PolAir-Remote Drone program to the Mid North Coast.
The call follows the results of the NSW Police drone trial in Moree, where the technology has been credited by some with helping reduce crime by around 50 per cent, assisting police with more than 100 arrests, the recovery of 70 stolen vehicles, and the location of six missing people.
“Our communities are spread across a large area, and a remotely operated drone could help police respond more effectively across difficult terrain and over long distances,” Mr Kemp said.
“Every time we can reduce the need for a dangerous pursuit or give police more information before they enter a property, we are making policing safer for everyone.”
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