9 May 2014

Local residents support tougher sentencing for violent home invaders

Hon Liza Harvey MLA, Minister for Police with Peter, addressing a forum in Butler

Peter Katsambanis, Liberal Member for North Metropolitan Region, hosted Hon Liza Harvey MLA, Minister for Police, at a Community Safety Forum in Merriwa last night. 

Residents from Alkimos, Clarkson, Butler, Jindalee, Merriwa and surrounding suburbs were invited to the Jenolan Way Community Centre to discuss relevant law and order issues affecting the local community.

“I was very pleased to host a public forum where concerned local residents could speak with the Minister and myself. It’s important that the public has a chance to speak directly with key decision makers in our Government.” Mr Katsambanis said. 

Residents raised a number of issues including concerns about soft sentencing of violent offenders and a strong desire for even tougher action on hoon drivers.

A Bill introduced by the State Government to see home invaders who also commit violent crimes jailed for a mandatory minimum term will be debated in State Parliament in the coming weeks.

"The overwhelming response from last night’s forum was clear - local residents strongly support the State Government’s proposed mandatory minimum sentencing for home invaders who commit violent crimes.” 

"With hoon driving, the recent investment by the State Government in covert cameras will provide local police and local residents with a new weapon to catch idiot drivers who endanger the lives of law abiding Western Australians.”

"After the success of last night’s forum, concerned residents in Perth’s northern suburbs are always welcome to contact my office with any queries related to law and order.” Mr Katsambanis concluded.

Peter with Hon Liza Harvey MLA, Minister for Police, and local resident Ivan Ivankovic