Nipping violence in the bud

Snr Sgt Ben Carroll.

By Margaret Maccoll

A year on from its introduction, the Vulnerable Person’s Unit is under review by Noosa police, but confidence in its effectiveness in combating domestic violence has led to its staffing for next year.
The unit, which has officers from Noosa and Coolum, targets first or second time high-risk domestic violence offenders using support and referral in a bid to halt further occurrences.
Noosa Senior Sergeant Ben Carroll said officers attended court to explain orders granted by the court in a bid to reduce possible breaches.
“We’re getting on the front foot, trying to nip it in the bud,” he said.
The unit also works with support organisations across Noosa to assist with families with emergency accommodation, food and security.
Snr Sgt Carroll said a lot of police time was spent dealing with domestic violence matters and there was support to assign officers to the specialised unit.
He said the review was important to ensure their responses were accurate.
Saturday 25 November marked White Ribbon Day that highlights the campaign calling for men across Australia to speak out about violence against women. It also marked the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.