Tough new changes to the ACT’s Criminal Laws that will see the proceeds of crime confiscated and gun laws tightened have been announced by the Attorney-General and the Minister for Police.
Attorney-General, Gordon Ramsay said the intent of the Crimes Legislation Amendment Bill was clear — “we will go after and take away what organised crime groups need to operate in the ACT.”
“The reforms support new arrangements between the Commonwealth and States and Territories to fight organised crime by depriving criminals of the proceeds of crime,” Mr Ramsay said.
“This will make criminals think twice before expanding their operations in the Territory,” he said.
“Our gun laws will also be reformed to stop people from using technical arguments to delay or prevent prosecution when they’re caught with illegal firearms.”
He said the changes to existing legislation would strengthen public safety in the community and help police and prosecutors bring organised crime groups to justice.
Minister for Police, Mick Gentleman said the new laws would support ACT Policing to protect Canberrans from criminal gangs.
“Canberra is a safe city but it doesn’t mean we’re immune from crime,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Over the last few years we have provided additional funding and resources to ACT Policing to specifically target organised crime groups and these new laws will further strengthen this effort.”
He said the ACT had an effective police taskforce and solid intelligence that meant there was nowhere for members of organised crime groups to hide.
