COVID-19 restrictions haven’t made life easier for Mid West police

The level of crime in Geraldton has not been affected by restrictions put in place during the COVID-19 state of emergency, according to Mid West and Gascoyne Superintendent Roger Beer. “I want to see people behaving responsibly during this time, staying home and safe,” he said. “But I wouldn’t say there has been a reduction in crime due to COVID-19.” He said police were still engaged in normal policing activity which was continuing smoothly despite the COVID-19 situation. “Over the past calendar year there has been a reduction within the Geraldton sub-district but that can be attributed to Operation Roundway not the COVID-19 situation,” he said. Mid West police have recently begun enforcing the regional travel restrictions and physical distancing rules put in place to curb the spread of the virus. Supt Beer said he was thankful the public had been understanding of the fact their lives would be impacted by the state of emergency. “People have largely been compliant with the social restrictions which makes it easier for us to do our jobs,” he said. “I’m very proud of my officers, despite the challenges they face, they’re getting on with the job of policing in this difficult time.” Meanwhile a spokeswoman for WA Police has not ruled out the use of police drones in Geraldton and the Mid West saying the drones would be used if needed. Police began using the highly visible drones last week to deal with people not adhering to social distancing and mass gathering rules. The drones are equipped with flashing lights and sirens and, are capable of broadcasting a message up to one kilometre away. In a statement police said the drones will also assist in increasing the safety of police officers.