Month: March 2026

Source: Tasmania Police

Alleged sex offender extradited from NSW to Tasmania

Friday, 6 March 2026 – 4:55 pm.

Officers from the Tasmania Police Western Sex Crimes Unit have extradited a 21 year old Northern Tasmanian man from New South Wales to Tasmania after he failed to appear in the Burnie Magistrates Court on serious sexual offence charges.The accused man last appeared in the Burnie Magistrates Court on 3 July 2025 where he entered a plea of not guilty to the charges of:-Indecent assault x 2-Assault with Indecent Intent.The offences are alleged to have been committed on a minor in January 2023.The alleged offender was subsequently bailed to appear at the Burnie Magistrates Court on 5 August. The man failed to appear at that hearing and a warrant was issued for his arrest.Detectives from the Western Sex Crimes Unit subsequently located the accused in New South Wales where, with assistance from New South Wales Police detectives, he was arrested and returned to Tasmania where he was presented to the Launceston Magistrates Court and remanded in custody to appear at a later date.

Source: Tasmania Police

Three people charged with public order incidents in Launceston

Friday, 6 March 2026 – 2:56 pm.

Three people have been charged with public order incidents after they were arrested in the Launceston CBD area this morning.
About 9.05am, it was reported to police that a disturbance was occurring in the Civic Square area, and a person was believed to have a knife in their possession.
Officers from Launceston Uniform quickly attended and arrested the three people involved in the disturbance who are known to each other.
Police have charged a:

33-year-old man with behave in a violent manner and unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.
39-year-old man with behave in a violent manner, unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place, unlawfully possess an explosive device, and drug related offences.
36-year-old woman with drug related offences.

Police will allege they located a knife in the 33-year-olds possession, and a Molotov cocktail in the 39-year-olds possession. The knife and Molotov cocktail were not used in the disturbance, and both have been seized by police.
The charged people will appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Senior Sergeant Donna Cayley is the 2026 recipient of the Patricia Anne Brennan Award, a prestigious honour recognising a member whose leadership and dedication have significantly advanced the role of women within the Northern Territory Police Force.

Senior Sergeant Cayley joined the Northern Territory Police Force in 2003 and has demonstrated consistent dedication to operational policing and organisational development. She currently serves as Officer in Charge of the Capability and Development Unit and Driver Training Section at the College.

Her career has included service in Tennant Creek, Major and Organised Crime, Sex Crimes, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre, the Territory Emergency Operations Centre, the Youth Engagement Division, and a number of Staff Officer appointments. This depth of experience reflects both her capability and her commitment to serving the Territory.

Commissioner Martin Dole said “Donna is a leader who invests in her people. She sets clear expectations, creates opportunity, and actively mentors those seeking to develop their skills and confidence.

“Under her guidance, many members have progressed to specialist roles and leadership positions. She understands that strong leadership builds strong teams, and strong teams build community confidence.

“Her integrity, professionalism and focus on developing others embody the standards we expect across the Northern Territory Police Force.”

Senior Sergeant Cayley was formally presented with the Patricia Anne Brennan Award today, ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday.

Source: Tasmania Police

Celebrating 50 Years of the Tasmania Police Academy at Rokeby

Friday, 6 March 2026 – 10:43 am.

Today marks 50 years since the Tasmania Police Academy officially opened its doors at Rokeby, a significant milestone in the history of policing in Tasmania.
Since 6 March 1976, 2926 recruits have trained at the purpose-built facility and gone on to serve the Tasmanian community as members of Tasmania Police.
Acting Commander Craig Joel said that while the exterior of the Academy remains largely unchanged, the nature of policing has evolved significantly since the 1970s – from uniforms and vehicles to technology, training methods and workplace culture.
“In the 1970s, the organisation looked very different, with fewer women in the Tasmania Police ranks and a training approach that was far less focused on the practical, real world scenarios that shape contemporary police training,” he said.
“The Academy itself has undergone many upgrades over time, including specialist spaces such as the scenario simulation house as well as large scale refurbishments of accommodation, office, gym, library and auditorium facilities.”
“This 50 year milestone is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate everyone who has contributed to the Academy over the years, including recruits, instructors, course directors and the many staff who ensure the facility operates at a high standard.”
“The ongoing success of the Academy is driven by the passion, professionalism and commitment of the people who work here, delivering high quality training that prepares recruits for the realities of modern policing.”
Acting Commander Joel said one such example is retiring Constable Rod Warrington who began his 48-year policing career at the Academy on 15 February 1978.
“After working across uniform, youth service and marine and rescue, Rod has dedicated the past 22 years to Operational Skills Training at the Academy,” he said.
“He has played an integral part in developing the operational skills training for our recruits and police officers over this time and even has a namesake award given to the recruit who demonstrates the highest skill in this area upon graduation.”
“Rod has seen firsthand just how much has changed with police training over the last 50 years, with developments like our scenario simulation house a strong example of giving our recruits realistic, hands on experiences that closely mirror the challenges they will face in operational environments.”
“While we honour the traditions that shaped the Academy, Tasmania Police is proud to provide contemporary training that reflects the needs of today’s officers and the expectations of the community we serve.”

Source: Tasmania Police

Launceston man charged over deliberately lit scrub fires

Friday, 6 March 2026 – 10:02 am.

Launceston CIB has charged a 35‑year‑old Launceston man with two counts of unlawfully setting fire to property following an investigation into several deliberately lit scrub fires in the Cataract Gorge area.
Police will allege the man deliberately lit two separate vegetation fires in the Gorge between 1 January and 5 March 2026.
These charges are the result of coordinated work by a multi‑agency taskforce involving Tasmania Police, the Tasmania Fire Service, the Environment Protection Authority and the Launceston City Council. The taskforce implemented targeted initiatives at the beginning of the fire season and continues to investigate suspicious fires across the Launceston area.
The man will next appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court on 29 April 2026.
Anyone who witnesses illegal or antisocial behaviours is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Source: Tasmania Police

Man charged with several firearms offences in relation to targeted incident at Rokeby

Friday, 6 March 2026 – 7:52 am.

A 22-year-old man from Rokeby has been charged with several firearms offences in relation to a targeted incident at Rokeby this week where a firearm was allegedly discharged through the door of a unit.  
Police will allege that about 4.50am on Wednesday 4 March, a man approached a unit on Joseph Street and discharged a firearm through the front door.  
Damage was caused to the door and interior of the residence. No injuries were sustained.  
South East CIB members have been investigating the incident and with the assistance of specialist resources, they conducted a search at a separate residence in Rokeby yesterday (Thursday) morning.  
During this search police took a man safely into custody and allegedly located and seized a loaded sawn-off shotgun. 
The man has been charged with offences including recklessly discharge a firearm, discharge a firearm within 250 metres of a dwelling, and possess shortened firearm.  
He was detained to appear before the Hobart Magistrates Court today (Friday 6 March).  
At this stage, police believe the incident was targeted and between parties who are known to each other.    
If anyone knows anything about illicit firearms in the community, they are urged to contact police on 131 444 or provide information through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 – this can be done anonymously.

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a man in relation to alleged fraud and serious animal cruelty offences in Tennant Creek.

On Wednesday 4 March 2026, officers attended a residence in Tennant Creek to execute a warrant in relation to historic fraud offences as part of an ongoing investigation.

While at the residence, officers located several malnourished and deceased dogs as well as a number of deceased protected native animals.

Animal welfare members also attended and two of the animals were required to be euthanised.

Senior Sergeant Michael Curtiss said “This was a confronting scene for our officers and the investigation remains in its early stages.

“The number of deceased dogs on this property is incredibly concerning. The 57-year-old was arrested during the search and remains in custody pending further investigation.   

“We currently believe the fraud could involve upwards of $600,000.

“Detectives are urging anyone with information to make contact on 131 444, anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

Source: Tasmania Police

Two youths charged over East Devonport fire

Thursday, 5 March 2026 – 4:13 pm.

Members of the Western Criminal Investigation Branch arrested 2 youths today in East Devonport following the investigation into a fire at the Wright Street Wharf overnight.
A 14-year-old and a 15-year-old boy were taken into custody this morning and charged in relation to the fire.
Both youths have also been charged with several other offences, including burglary, stealing, trespass, marking graffiti, injuring property and destroying property. The fire forms part of a broader series of alleged offending.
The 15-year-old boy has been bailed to appear before the Devonport Youth Justice Court at a later date.
The 14-year-old boy was detained for court.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact detectives at the Western Criminal Investigation Branch on 131444 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au.

Source: New South Wales Health – State Government

​​NSW Health is advising people in South Western Sydney to be alert for signs and symptoms of measles after being notified of a confirmed case.
This person has had no known contact with anyone else with measles and did not attend any known exposure locations in Sydney.
With the source of the infection unknown, it is likely measles is currently circulating within the community, and other people may have been unknowingly exposed to measles. 
The person visited several locations across South Western Sydney while unknowingly infectious, including healthcare facilities. 
A full list of locations is available on the NSW Health website. Exposure locations and times are updated regularly. 
People who attended these locations should watch for symptoms of measles. These locations do not pose an ongoing risk. 
If it has been less than 6 days since the exposure at these locations and you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system or have an infant who was exposed, you are advised to contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055.
There is currently an increased risk of measles in NSW, with 22 cases confirmed since 1 January 2026.
South Western Sydney Local Health District Acting Director of Public Health, Dr Stephen Conaty, said people should monitor for symptoms of measles, particularly if they have visited any of the exposure locations at the listed time.
“If symptoms develop and you’ve been at one of the locations at the time listed on the website, see your doctor or health service, including an emergency department. Call ahead to let them know that you may have come into contact with measles so you don’t spend time in waiting rooms with other patients,” Dr Conaty said. 
“Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes, runny nose and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head and face to the rest of the body. ​
“Anyone with early symptoms who gets a rash a few days later should also think about measles, even if they haven’t attended one of the identified locations, and seek testing.
“It can take up to 18 days for symptoms to appear after an exposure, so it’s important for people who visited these locations to look out for symptoms for this period.”
 ​Measles is a vaccine preventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes. ​
“Importantly, we want to remind the community to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations. Measles vaccine can prevent the disease even after exposure, if given early enough,” Dr Conaty said.
“Anyone born after 1965 needs to ensure they have had two doses of measles vaccine. This is especially important before overseas travel, as measles outbreaks are occurring in several regions of the world at the moment.”
Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective and is given free for children at 12 and 18 months of age. It is also free in NSW for anyone born after 1965 who hasn’t already had two doses.
Children under the age of 12 months can have an extra, early, dose of MMR from six months of age if they are travelling overseas. Parents should consult their GP.
People who are unsure of whether they have had two doses should get a vaccine, as additional doses are safe. This is particularly important prior to travel. MMR vaccine is available from GPs (all ages) and pharmacies (people over 5 years of age).
For more information on measles, view the measles factsheet.
People can also visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website for information on health risks, including measles outbreaks relevant to their travel destination.
If you, or a loved one, is experiencing measles symptoms, or have questions about measles, please call your GP or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222. ​

Source: Tasmania Police

Devonport and Latrobe Police target illegal and dangerous Personal Mobility Device use

Thursday, 5 March 2026 – 1:59 pm.

Devonport and Latrobe Police have concluded a targeted seven-day operation focusing on the illegal and dangerous use of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), including electric scooters and skateboards.
The proactive enforcement period saw police speak with approximately 40 PMD riders across the Devonport and Latrobe areas for various compliance and safety concerns.
As a result of the operation, police issued:

8 infringements to riders detected operating PMDs without approved helmets
1 infringement to a rider detected using a PMD on a prohibited road
1 Youth Caution issued for riding without a helmet.

While the majority of riders were educated in relation to minor matters, a number were issued infringements where enforcement action was necessary.
Police also have the authority to seize a Personal Mobility Device for up to seven days if an officer reasonably believes it is being used contrary to the Road Rules in a manner that poses a danger to the rider or the public.
Constable Jess Gibson of Devonport Police, who led the targeting operations, said the focus was on improving safety and reinforcing community expectations.
“We’re seeing a steady increase in the popularity of electric scooters and skateboards across Devonport and Latrobe, particularly among young people,” Constable Gibson said.
“Most riders were receptive to the education provided, however where we identified clear breaches that placed riders or others at risk, we did not hesitate to take enforcement action.”
“Wearing a helmet, sticking to speed limits and riding responsibly are simple measures that significantly reduce the risk of serious injury.”
Police are reminding the community of the key rules when riding a PMD:

Approved helmets MUST be worn and securely fastened
Maximum speeds apply: 15km/h on footpaths, and 25km/h on roads and shared paths
NEVER use a mobile phone while riding
NEVER ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
ALWAYS obey access signs
Do not carry passengers or animals.

Constable Gibson said the message is simple.
“Know the rules and ride safe. These devices are a convenient and fun way to get around, but riders must understand they are legally responsible for how they use them.”
Devonport and Latrobe Police will continue to conduct high-visibility patrols and targeted enforcement to ensure PMD users comply with the law and help keep the community safe.
Know the Rules – Ride Safe.