Frankston Police Get Extra Powers to Combat Alcohol Related Crime and Violence
Source: Victoria. Minister for Consumer Affairs. Media Release
"Frankston police will soon have extra powers to tackle alcohol-fuelled violence in the city’s entertainment precinct. Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson announced the Director of Liquor Licensing has declared Frankston a ‘designated area’ giving police the power to issue banning notices to people suspected of committing certain offences from venues or the entire area for up to 24 hours.The declaration will come into effect on 5 March, 2009. Mr Robinson said the Brumby Government was taking action to protect Victorians from alcohol-related crime and violence by providing police with stronger powers to immediately respond to dangerous incidents.“It is important to strike the right balance between reducing alcohol-related violence and protecting the vibrant nightlife that Victorians enjoy,” he said.“Police will now be able to remove individual troublemakers from Frankston’s entertainment precinct, protecting club and pub patrons looking to enjoy a good night out from harm. “The Frankston community can feel safer knowing police will take direct and immediate action against troublemakers.” Offences warranting banning notices include physical assault, sexual offences, threats to kill, property damage, drunkenness, offensive or obscene behaviour, failure to leave licensed premises and weapons offences. In a designated area, police can also apply for a court order that the ban remain in force for up to 12 months if a person is found guilty of committing a specified offence in the area."