GPS tracking devices among tough new measures to be implemented as part of Queensland youth crime crackdown

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced tough new measures to combat youth crime including a trial of GPS tracking devices, increased police powers, strengthening anti-hooning laws and reversing the presumption of bail for serious indictable offences. The changes include: Reversing the presumption of bail in cases of serious indictable offences Expecting more of parents and carers — where courts can seek assurances from them that the offender will adhere to the bail conditions or bail will not be granted Courts will be given the option to issue GPS trackers as a condition of bail for 16 and 17 year olds Police on the Gold Coast will be provided hand-held metal detectors to check for knives Anti-hooning laws will be strengthened so that the registered owner of a vehicle can be deemed responsible for offences unless the car was stolen or someone else was driving A Parliamentary Inquiry will examine whether or not remote engine immobilisers should be implemented Ms Palaszczuk said trials for the GPS tracking devices would be held in Moreton, north Brisbane, Townsville, Logan and Gold Coast districts. "Youth offending and the amount of youth offenders have actually decreased dramatically over the years — it's this small cohort of 10 per cent that needs to be dealt with," she said. Mr Ryan said trialling GPS trackers for 16 and 17 year olds in some locations would "reinforce the efforts of police as well as compliance when it comes to bail conditions".