by Ivan Ray | Nov 22, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
11th November 2018
The issue of the “Red Shirts” has rapidly descended into a farce. It is no longer just an artifice.
That the investigators have allegedly not been given access to phone records and the Ombudsman’s files is shameful. The allegation that police investigators were given special instructions to not follow protocols with the politician suspects is outrageous.
That the principal architect identified by the Ombudsman has not been arrested, interviewed, and charged with the alleged offences is beyond comprehension.
This investigation process would seem to be creating more criminal offences as it progresses. If what is reported is accurate then the score card for ‘Perverting the Course of Justice ‘, Conspiracy with others to Pervert the Course of Justice’ and Misconduct in Public Office’ are raking up possible perpetrators on a daily basis, mostly within VicPol and possibly OPP.
The Public must now be beyond outrage.
The hot potato approach of referring the matter to IBAC is interesting given they have already declined to investigate the matter in June and can only be interpreted as a deliberate delaying tactic.
In all my experience I have never seen what should be a relatively straight forward investigation turned into such a dogs breakfast. Not in my view, by the investigators.
Vicpol’s action will inevitably lead to an inquiry where the truth can be established and no doubt careers ended.
For VicPol this is an ‘own goal’.
Kel Glare.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 20, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
20th November 2018
The unresolved ‘Red Shirts’ affair is with the OPP to provide advice to the Chief Commissioner on prosecuting those involved in this artifice.
The CAA agrees with the Herald Sun 20/11/18 that there is an overwhelming obligation to let voters know before Saturday if prosecutions are likely.
The electorate must go to the poles informed not in chasm of ignorance.
The Chief Commissioner has the responsibility to inform the electorate irrespective of what advice he may need or have.
It is no longer, whether a prosecution will succeed. The issue is whether the allegations are true or false and that can only be determined by a Court or the stench will linger for eternity.
The possibility of a constitutional crises cannot be discounted but the issue will be who caused it.
If the electorate is informed and they re-elect the current Government and a crises ensures this was the electorate exercising their democratic right and that must be respected.
If on the other hand the matter is still in limbo come the election and the Government is returned only to face a constitutional crises in the New Year, it will be the Chef Commissioner that will be held to account. A legacy no Chief Commissioner would enjoy.
Arguably, we may be faced with another election in 2019.
Whether a prosecution fails or succeeds it is a matter for the Courts after testing and evaluating the evidence not the executive arm of Government.
If there is a case to answer all participants must be charged and the electorate advised, this has to happen before Saturday.
Ivan W Ray
by Ivan Ray | Nov 18, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
18th November 2018
As Victorians move towards casting their vote the CAA has raised the sceptre of Integrity as the key element that is missing from many of our bureaucratic institutions including the Judiciary the Government, Police, IBAC and any other entity funded by the public purse.
You are funding these functions of Government and they are supposed to be serving you so at the very least you are entitled to have those entities operated and function with Integrity.
If we are inclined to donate to a charitable cause, we are automatically influenced by our perceived or actual knowledge of the integrity of the organisation that is managing the donations for the cause. We would shy away from a charitable endeavour if we suspected that the function of the charity lacked Integrity and so we should, irrespective of the cause.
A government we elect should be no different.
The CAA intends to publicly comment on matters where we identify that Integrity has been compromised and call on the organisation to respond.
If the entity does not respond then we assume the veracity of the breech alleged and we will regularly bring those breeches to the public notice.
A breech of integrity is only a hairs breadth away from corruption and if we want good governance of this state we need to ensure that Integrity is retained at all levels.
We have been disappointed at the lack lustre convoluted and in our view unsatisfactory performance of the various entities and authorities that are supposed to manage these issues. The performance of the current Government is testament to their failure.
They do not focus on what we the community might expect but bury issues in legalese to avoid punitive actions. It is extremely rare for any of these entities to detect lack of Integrity but perform half-baked responses to complaints from the public. They are all reactive and not proactive and their in lies their failure.
Governments that do not focus on what we the community expect and do everything possible to avoid accountability must ultimately expect to be held to account. It is extremely rare for many publicly funded organizations to acknowledge when they have acted with a lack of Integrity, and, when caught out, usually fail to respond adequately to complaints from the public. Being reactive and not proactive lies at the heart of their failure.
Failures of integrity must be pursued without fear or favour and the appropriate watchdog directed to take appropriate action. Independently of Government but reporting back to the Government.
An Integrity Commission can be the, ‘police on the beat’ detecting and identifying Integrity breaches and ensuring corrections.
The focus should be on correcting behaviours or processes and punitive actions reserved only for blatantly unlawful actions.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 13, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
13th November 2018
The issue of police numbers seem on the surface to be very confusing. On the one hand the Government is claiming number increases and the Opposition claiming the opposite.
The ABC Fact checker claims the Opposition is wrong but shows little understanding of police resourcing leading to misleading outcomes and the ABC is wrong.
Over recent years the Police numbers (overall) have increased to where Victoria has the highest ratio of sworn Police to every 100,000 population in Australia but also the highest crime rates.
The problem is in the definition of Operational Police that has been blurred in recent years by political manipulation of the real situation.
To understand the issue of the role of Police there are three distinct categories.
- Operational Police The frontline police working designated shifts generally operating out of Police Stations servicing the needs of the Community – manning the Divisional Vans, foot patrols and conducting other community interaction. They respond to any and every call from the community, they interact with the young and the old, the infirm and the aggressive. There are no boundaries to the demands on their work and they are in the ‘front line’, working to keep their community safe.
When you move past those members the descriptive phase ‘Operational Support Police’ applies. If Operational Police are involved in important duties and from time to time are in harms way their role is Operational Support for the front line Police.
- Operational Support Police. The Operational Support police are there to do as the name suggests and this includes all the specialist functions including the Special Operations Group, Air Wing, Crime Scene Officers, Task Forces, Squads, Groups or Units, Dog Squad, Water Police, Critical Incident Support Police and a list as long as your arm usually referred to by their acronyms.
Most of these units can be identified by a commonality that they do not work twenty four hour shifts and or they do not respond in the first instance to community needs There are exceptions but they are still Operational Support.
- Non- Operational Support Police. This covers the rest of the Police service including Management, Command and a wide range of tasks that have little or no Operational contact with the public.
All the functions in these categories are important. However the second and third category must never lose sight of their role,’ Support’. The pendulum can move to where the numbers in Support diminishes the frontline capability, which would on the surface seem to be a problem that has evolved in recent years.
The Government claims that increasing Police numbers is necessary because of population growth and recruiting stagnation over many years is attributable to both major parties are correct. The full benefit of the numbers authorised will not be achieved until 2020.
When the Opposition claims that Operational Police numbers are down, and based on information from frontline Police and the Police Association, they are correct. Explaining, in part, the Crime Tsunami.
Normally the Government of the day does not or should not influence Police allocation of resources. However, when the public is at risk then they have an obligation to intervene at a corporate level ensuring that police allocations are consistent with policing philosophies. That is not a Political interference but an intercurrence.
Where does that leave the voter when the crime Tsunami that has hit is still being felt?
The choices you have are:
Stick with the Government then endure more of the same. We can anticipate as the Police numbers increase the current ratios will remain constant with the pendulum in our view leaning perilously too far away from Operations. If you are satisfied with the ‘status quo’ then that is your call.
The Opposition however has indicated in a number of Policy announcements that they will emphasise Operational Policing, Crime Prevention and, critically, Service Delivery. That means that they will move to adjust the policing philosophies to achieve better operational policing outcomes swinging the pendulum back to balance.
When casting your vote and considering this issue remember that all the claims and counter claims are irrelevant it is how safe you feel and the confidence you have if something goes awry that you will receive the service you are entitled.
These are the facts that should influence your decision at the forth-coming election.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 12, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
12th November 2018
The Herald Sun reported (Frontline thin in hot spots 12/11/18) that the available Police at Frankston, a key metropolitan station had been cut in half.
The CAA had been led to believe that most stations operate on the” 70 -30 rule” at best, with the full burden of policing left to just 70% of the members.
Frankston takes this to a new alarming high. If that is the situation at Frankston what is happening at other large stations?
The community must be outraged at the impact on their safety and basic freedoms that effective Policing ensures. Nothing highlights this more than police taking hours and sometimes never, responding to the community needs. So much for Service delivery.
The CAA has long advocated that Police Stations must be the staffing priority and not the crucible of resource simply there to service other operational support or non-operational management whims.
This was demonstrated at the most recent Bourke Street incident where one Divisional Van Crew confronted and dealt admirably with a major incident. It was not long for huge numbers of Police to descend on the scene after the fact.
That raises the question of just where were all these police when the original call was made? With the numbers that appeared it is unbelievable that there were not multiple resources patrolling the city on foot and in cars, on bikes or horses. It would seem police managers would rather have them in an office in case! This is reactive as opposed to proactive policing. The latter to reduce the likelihood of these things happening.
The dark cloud that descends over Police staffing strategies is the increased risk of physical harm, stress and PTSD on the remaining members who must grind away with an ever-increasing workload.
The consequences are inevitable and the increase of victims in the community and within police ranks will be the outcome.
The Government cannot ‘wash its hands’ and side step this issue claiming ‘Separation of Powers’ and notwithstanding that politicians are in electoral mode this situation is very urgent and must be a addressed and the community given assurances of a solution.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 12, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
12th November 2018
A Senior Police member at Rosebud (HS9/11/18) laments the lack of Police resources and the management decision not to deploy extra Police to Rosebud for the traditional busy holiday season.
The astounding reason given – it was,” not busy enough”.
Again, Victoria Police have succumbed to the slavery of statistics, which replaces sound operational decisions.
The police member identified that the staffing levels at Rosebud are inadequate now and secondly an influx of holidaymakers will make the situation impossible to police given that domestics which tie up police crews for a minimum of four hours, reach epidemic proportions over Christmas.
To the credit of the current members at Rosebud it is clear that they are very effective even with the current staffing levels.
The most effective policing produces no measurable results because of the absence of crime and social disorder.
That large numbers of Victorians move into the area over Christmas and New Year reducing Policing demands elsewhere it defies logic that the staffing in the area is not boosted. The member is not talking about Water police, Air wing, or Mounted Branch who cannot park their vehicles in a driveway to attend an incident.
There are two types of frontline operational members, the ones that provide the policing service day in day out and are the ones we must rely on, and then others who are frontline police support who are important but are limited in their Policing response.
This whole issue is a management problem within Vicpol that must be addressed.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 12, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
12th November 2018
I start with the position that the present approach to the issue of illicit drugs in this State is full of anomalies, contradictions and anti-social ramifications.
Those who imbibe them are volunteers – nobody forces them to do so.
Making these drugs illegal, but at the same time assisting their consumption through such things as so-called “safe injecting rooms”, or testing pills at music festivals (to make sure they are “safe” to take) is the very height of hypocrisy and brings the law into disrepute. BUT BRINGING THE LAW INTO EVEN GREATER DISREPUTE IS WHAT HAPPENS IN COURTS WHEN THE ISSUE OF DRUGS AND DRUG-TAKING IS RAISED BY THOSE DEFENDING DEFENDANTS.
There is ample precedent for the proposition that self-induced influence of chemicals, coupled with conduct that might otherwise be disregarded, should be taken seriously and add to society’s criticism (or punishment) of the overall conduct by a person.
There is, and always will be, the issue that some drugs when taken – whether unlawfully or lawfully – can cause the imbiber to act in a manner dangerous to both himself and others, on the roads, in the workplace, or in the home.
But these volunteers, who choose to act unlawfully and dangerously, then commonly claim special privilege in mitigation of the nature of the offence or penalty, by virtue of that unlawful behaviour.
Such pleas or claims by the defence should not merely be disregarded, they ought not be allowed to be raised! So long as those sorts of claims relate to voluntary conduct by the accused they should not go to reduce the culpability of the volunteer.
To the contrary, such evidence should go to EXTEND the culpability of the volunteer. E.g. if a man gives himself some “dutch courage”, or reduces his inhibitions, after imbibing some chemical or for that matter alcohol, so as to conduct himself in an criminal manner, then his culpability should be increased in the interests of other citizens. We punish a person found drunk in charge of a motor car, even though no actual harm occurs to the public. We punish a person found drunk in possession of a loaded firearm, even if the weapon is not fired.
The law used to be fairly clear that self-induced intoxication was not a defence to a criminal charge. For the sake of clarity and effectiveness, we would make it plain in law that any self-induced state is both no defence but also no mitigation, either of the seriousness of any criminal charge or any subsequent penalty for that charge.
That approach should specifically apply to claims of addiction.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 9, 2018 | PTSD, Uncategorized
9th November 2018
I had not long finished publishing a Post I did earlier today highlighting that poor management decisions that place substantial stress on Police members – I am confident that the Senior policeman at Rosebud referred to in that post did not speak out because of spite, but frustration and genuine concerns for his community and his staff.
I then received an email to let me know that yet another police member has apparently committed suicide at a police station and had been discovered by colleagues this morning.
This leaves me with opposing unpleasant emotions – Very angry that this death was probably avoidable and angry that the other members had to deal with one of their own and the consequences that may evolve with them.
I am also deeply saddened that a family has lost a loved one and Police have lost another colleague.
Most of my anger is directed at the Government and Victoria Police who have known that members are under unrealistic stress and it would appear that little is being done- certainly not enough to avoid this tragedy.
We do not, of course, know all the circumstances but that is hardly the point as any plaintive justification or excuse will be rejected and properly dismissed.
The Government and the Chief Commissioner are jointly responsible and must own the issue, accept responsibility and make meaningful changes – I am afraid that Premier Andrews’s continual mantra on police numbers is clearly not the solution. Something the CAA has been highlighting for a considerable time.
It is a management problem.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 8, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
What a shocking headline and to think this is the tip of the iceberg.
Given that most of the perpetrators are children themselves, the response is even more alarming than the problem.
The implied strategy to prosecute is indicative of the failed Law and Order principles applied in this State where it is more important to prosecute than prevent the offence in the first place.
Many of the perpetrators, children as young as 10 years old, have barely learnt that there can be consequences to their actions and charging a few kids will not help many victims.
To argue that it will be a deterrent is absolute rubbish.
The severity and the effect of the problem must not be understated it can be devastating for the victim but to handle it in a draconian fashion will inevitably lead to greater problems.
We must be about preventing or managing the problem.
This problem demands proactive action and that means reintroducing the Police in Schools program so that children can deal directly with a Police member who can through education, reduce the problem and where it flares nip it in the bud before it escalates out of control.
That is being victim, not perpetrator focused, the direction unfortunately our society is inextricably heading.
Election time is a good time to contact your local MP and express your concern. Just an email will help.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 6, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
6th November 2018
Thank you for this interview on the ABC “Four Corners” program your Honour. It explains where we have a problem.
It was not an enlightenment or even a surprise to know that the Africans do not account for the majority of your (Court) work and nobody including the media is claiming otherwise. Most prosecuted African children would go through the Children’s Court so you would not see them anyway.
“If you are an African offender, and certainly if you’re an African youth of South Sudanese background from the western suburbs of Melbourne, rest assured your case will be reported upon.”- said County Court Judge Peter Kidd
This was enlightening, as most of us ‘not informed’ Victorians have believed that this ethnic group are also well represented in the South Eastern suburbs. Obviously somebody is wrong. Believe it or not we don’t care where they live it is the type of crime they commit that has the State worried.
Comments attributed to the good Judge Kidd are more judgemental on the judiciary than us ‘not informed’ or the media.
Mr Kidd also said,” the media was unfairly criticising how judges were too soft on young offenders.”
That was a surprise, maybe the Politicians bringing in mandatory minimums might be a clue to the courts sentencing values. Seems the courts have not figured that out yet.
“Unfortunately, a lot of the criticism that occurs is not informed, and it’s not balanced, and it’s not fair.
“That’s dangerous, because that undermines their confidence in the justice system. That’s our concern. It’s an attack effectively upon the rule of law,” said Judge Kidd.
You are kidding aren’t you? What is dangerous is your effusing over the prospect of rehabilitating young offenders then being insultingly dismissive of victims – perhaps they need to be rehabilitated back to a life before they had it wrecked by your youthful offender.
Seems that the judiciary might be well served by a morning assembly every Monday to recite their oath under the flag. The words ‘Fairness’ to be emphasised.
Makes a strong case for contracts for the judiciary.
Your Honour’s comments were, in football parlance, an ‘Own Goal’.
by Ivan Ray | Nov 2, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
Red Shirts
This is the dilemma facing the Chief Commissioner over the Red Shirts saga. Resolved either way that will probably be his legacy.
If he charges the politicians suspected of rorting in the Red Shirts affair he will be lauded by the majority of Victorians who want to know before they exercise their vote.
It will also dispel allegations of Political interference in the process. He will also be pilloried as interfering in politics by a noisy sector of the community who do not understand the law and the binding separation of powers conventions.
If he does not charge them he must satisfy the population that there has been no offences disclosed. A tall order when the allegations have not been put to them and they have made admissions in the public arena.
In making his decision, the Chief Commissioner must protect the integrity of his Office and Victoria Police more generally.
Victorians have started to vote so the clock is ticking for a resolution. The public have an absolute right to be informed.
Chef Commissioner we believe you to be a man of integrity therefore you only have one option. Let Victorians exercise their informed democratic right, do your job and leave the courts to be the final arbiter.
A legacy of doing the right thing without fear or favour is something to be truly proud of.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 31, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
31st October 2018
Andrew Bushnell in his article HS 31/10/18. “Give victims the right to appeal soft sentences,” is an excellent article and it is about time we had a serious discussion about the impact of sentencing on victims that is solution orientated. Victims not only suffer the consequences of the crime but are too often further traumatised by inadequate and charitable application of the sentences determined by our elected government.
Our Judiciary seem unable to comprehend the impact on victims or how the community may view their appallingly soft application of the law. They are very quick to criticise governments setting minimum sentencing legislation but fail to grasp that this would not be occurring if their sentencing reflected community expectations in the first place.
They also fail to pursue financial compensation from the perpetrators who may well be skint at court but will accumulate wealth at some point at which time they must pay for their crime. Jail time does not expunge the financial debt they owe a victim.
Your Honours have brought this on yourselves –no sympathy exists for your disquiet over this matter.
To have to endure yet another court procedure, Application to seek leave to appeal, and a subsequent appeal may be just too much for many victims leading to undesirable consequences for victims.
We should however reconsider the role of the Victims Commissioner and empower the Commissioner to intervene in cases on behalf of the victims and direct the DPP.
Vitoria has an excellent and very competent Commissioner, Mr Greg Davies and he would be well positioned and capable to undertake this role but the government has so limited his capacity by budgetary constraints he is only part time effectively nobbling the Commissioner from making any meaningful impact. Given his restraints, he does an excellent job.
Victims may be far better served by having a functioning Victims Commission with the capacity to look after their needs and provide advice, legal representation and guidance for the appeals process.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 19, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
19th October 18
Recently we witnessed the illuminated spectacle of some judges entering into the defence of the sentencing practices of our courts. That is to say, they fully recognised widespread public concern exists about those practices.
On 17 October 2018, those concerns were yet again shown to be justified – and the courts proven to be guilty!
A man who deliberately overdosed, and killed, a thirteen-year-old girl was given a slap over the wrist with a damp feather; and they call that justice? He knowingly used a dangerous and illegal drug, and he was no stranger to criminal activity – no innocent first offender here.
It is difficult to imagine a more serious offence against good order, decency, public tranquillity – all those hallmarks of a civilised society that we hold dear – than this wilful destruction of a young and gullible child as this victim was. If this was not premeditated murder it was so close as to almost be indistinguishable from murder. And the killer will probably be set loose on society some time in 2019.
Time to make our judges accountable, and our laws more in tune with public expectations. We live in a democracy where, supposedly, those expectations carry great weight.
Yet again our courts have delivered injustice. Justice may be on the right path as asserted by Justin Quill (HS 19/10/18) but it is time to pull the chain harder.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 9, 2018 | PTSD, Uncategorized
9th November 2018
The death of yet another Police member who lost their fight with coping must be a catalyst for change.
Do not let this death be in vain like so many before.
Do not use the mantra of ‘seek help’ and the other glib blame shifters to divert from the real problem which is clearly a management one. The Stress of the Job is the management not the function. With good management police all cope well with the function, they are resilient.
Show some leadership and take ownership of the issue, take control and fix it because this one might be on you.
These police members would not need to seek help if the organisation was managed properly and a work environment with less stress existed.
Mangers should be less concerned with their career and more concerned and focused on their subordinates and ensure they are properly resourced and supported.
This does not mean that they do less work because it is the environment they work in, not the work itself that is usually espoused as the culprit.
We challenge Premier Andrews and Chief Commissioner Ashton to properly address this issue without applying Band-Aids to placate the electorate with glib excuses. Grow a spine and fix it.
The CAA with over 600 years of executive policing experience has long ago identified the management and organisational failings and provided not just criticism solutions to correct the problem but has been dismissed as irrelevant and out of date.
The CAA is arguably more dedicated to Victoria Police than many VicPol managers who are more career focused than dedicated to the organisation and the police members. It is time that they recognised and the CAA advice needs to be given serious consideration – the current management of VicPol is not all that flash and could do with a hand.
The CAA stands ready to assist because – we care.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 8, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
8th October 2018
Apart from the obvious advantages for a safer Community overall, the proposal to reintroduce the Police In Schools Program to Primary Schools and embedded police in Secondary Schools (PISP) would see a substantial increase in safety for teachers.
The Community Advocacy Alliance (CAA) has submitted the PISP proposal to both the Government and the Opposition. Only the Mathew Guy Opposition has embraced and announced the inclusion of a PISP in their policy.
This initiative would be the single most effective way to help protect our educators and reduce stress.
A PISP would reduce the current cost of violence and associated stress in schools dramatically and that would go a long way to funding the program and gaining all the additional benefits the program can bring.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 6, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
6th October 2018
What must now, or should be, exercising the minds of Police Command and the Police Unions is the ever increasing danger that police are being exposed to by the plethora of options that they must consider, literally hanging of their utility belts.
In the often micro millisecond that police officers get to decide which option to use the ever increasing risk of more options multiplies the risks to police members and the community.
“Should I use the Capsicum spray the Taser or, ops too late”.
Former Chief Commissioner S.I. Miller in a reflective mood in the 1970’s expressed his concern that the soon to be introduced utility belts had a major flaw. The potential for police to rely on the belt (and all its appendages) to solve the problems they are confronted with rather than their brain.
Keeping track of the options is also quite a job. Apart from the standard issue firearm there is now greater access to long arms. Tasers, capsicum spray, rubber bullets, beanbag shot and o/c paint ball guns, tear gas and other pyrotechnic devices.
Not sure whether batons or twisted arm are still options. Not to forget the ubiquitous tackle.
Far to often Governments and police commands acquiesces to the demands of the fringe far left radicals particularly those in the law industry. The utopia they strive to oppress us with must be met with resistance.
We need a serious discussion on this issue with the Government prepared to provide enabling legislation to protect police not the perpetrator.
This same philosophy applies to police chases and anti-social street (Gangs) behaviour.
Time we started pushing back.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 6, 2018 | Library, PTSD, Uncategorized
6th October 2018
As a former Chief Commissioner I am heartened and congratulate the efforts of Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton and Police Association Secretary Wayne Gatt in their effort to raise money for Retired Police (veterans) Peer Support program and awareness of the trauma faced by police veterans as a result of service to this State on their “Head to Head” walk.
During my service I saw mental health issues with serving police but they were of the overt type and the term PTSD was yet to be coined however I reflect back that the problem was probably just as bad as it is now but we did not recognise it. We did have limited psych services but the general attitude to members who were struggling was, “suck it up and get on with it.” It is only in later years I have recognised the trauma that mental health has on police veterans and their families who are often forgotten.
Time has passed and medical diagnostic skills have dramatically improved and I often wonder if we had the knowledge back then that we have now early intervention would have avoided chronic mental health issues suffered by veterans today.
The Community Advocacy Alliance (CAA) of which I am chair has been working on initiatives to assist in the problems faced by police veterans. We have presented our proposals to the Government and the Opposition as well as Federal politicians.
We wish you both great success in achieving substantial support for the real heroes of this issue, the Retired (Veterans) Police Peer Support officers.
Kelvin Glare AO APM
Chief Commissioner (Retired)
by Ivan Ray | Oct 4, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
4th of October 2018
In 1987 we were shocked and children were so traumatised by an advertising campaign featuring the “Grim Reaper” in the fight against aids the advertisement was pulled but it did it’s job.
A similar campaign “Cigarettes Kill” on social media had similar impact and linked with other anti smoking campaigns has made cigarette smoking antisocial. Effectively achieving a cultural change.
The Traffic Accident Commission (TAC) over many years has resorted to the “shock and awe” approach to road safety that has achieved substantial influence in changing the culture toward drink driving.
Maybe not the total solution in these cases but to say they have not had a profound impact is grossly underselling their effectiveness.
It concerns the CAA that the same techniques are not applied to the drug trade.
Some of the best anti-drugs ads have been produced in the US and appear regularly during the Super Bowl, one of the iconic advertising events in the world. The costs for this advertising is horrendous so we can reasonably assume the benefit exists
As we approach an election in Victoria in a few weeks time we challenge the major parties to make commitments to a substantial anti-drugs campaign designed to steer our children away for this poison.
Making drug pushers pariahs a kin to the “Grim Reaper” would be a good start.
by Ivan Ray | Oct 1, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
1st of October 2018
Music Festivals like “Listen Out” attract a fairly consistent demographic, or so you would expect. Similar results between the two largest cities in Australia hosting the festival, at least from a Policing perspective.
The usual offences at these events are associated with drugs so the police role is one of prevention and in these circumstances that is done by detection of illicit drugs.
In both states there were plenty of warnings about a zero tolerance by police so you would have to be a moron to front up with a pocket full of drugs. Unfortunately there are plenty of morons.
It appears zero tolerance has different meanings in different places.
Charged with detecting crime at the “Listen out” festival in New South Wales the constabulary detected and arrested 150 offenders. An offending rate of 1in every 214 patrons.
And what do you think the figures would have been for the same Festival in Melbourne five days before?
You would expect a near similar figures to NSW. A number somewhere around 70 would be reasonable but you guessed it. It is reported that Melbourne really stands out with two arrests, neither for drug offence but drunkenness.
Even if you count then19 diversions and 3 cautions issued that still only brings the Melbourne figure to 25 or 1 to every 600 patrons. There are some variations in the reported figures but the best case is stretched to a bit over 30.
This means one of two things. Either detection methods are not as effective in Victoria or the Victorian festival goers are smarter.
Alas and sadly the latter is unlikely.
That is the tale of two cities.
by Ivan Ray | Sep 29, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
27th September 2018
If ever there was a need for a major inquiry, it is into the debacle known as Victoria Police Information Technology, the compelling identification of failures in today’s Herald Sun 27/9/18 demand no less of a response.
Delving deeper into this issue it seems we Victorians have forked out millions of dollars for no meaningful result yet. Difficult to pin down but half a billion would seem a fair estimate.
https://delimiter.com.au/2013/11/11/victoria-police-appoints-cio-without-background/
In July, Victoria Police went to market for a large tranche of IT outsourcing services, in a deal which will reportedly be worth up to $340 million and see five separate outsourcing contracts consolidated into one substantial contract representing one of the largest such deals in Australia’s public sector this year. Setting aside the IT project issue — projects which have catastrophically failed before — Victoria Police is fundamentally revolutionising its ICT delivery model as a whole right now, outsourcing most of its work.
Now that sounds like there is hope and the solution is just around the corner. but that comment was published in 2013 – 5 years ago.
And it is not as though the Government was not warned.
A report published by the State Services Authority in Victoria in March 2012 found that the (VicPol) division had no ability to deliver such projects
November 2009 a report handed down by Victoria’s Ombudsman found that the department’s IT management had a “disregard for proper procurement and contract management”
A litany of failures at management level have resulted in police members having one hand tied behind their back.
In an era where you can have an app on your phone or IPad for almost anything can the solution be so difficult.
I can lodge receipts and receive payments for health insurance using an app as I can check the weather radar or track every international flight in real time, accessing data for police should be straight forward.
It is true that problems preceded the current government but they have thrown over three hundred million at the problem with a promise to fix it including the appointment of a Deputy Police Commissioner to manage the program. Another Government exercise in throwing money at a problem hoping that will fix it, it has not and probably will not. Time to get somebody who knows what they are doing to solve it.
There should be some rolling heads over this absolute embarrassment, recouping some of the millions spent for no result that puts all Victorians at risk, not to mention our police members.
by Ivan Ray | Sep 25, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
25th September 2018
OPEN LETTER TO ALL VICTORIANS
The Community Advocacy Alliance Inc. (CAA), formed over three and a half years ago, is a body of citizens including retired very senior police, a wide range of business people, victim’s advocates and social workers who are concerned about a number of issues affecting Victorians. The CAA set out to be apolitical and initially the CAA concentrated on suggesting reforms to the way in which the Victoria Police operated and on promoting changes to the criminal justice system. Our efforts have been rebuffed by the Victoria Police and by the Government. Our offer to consult with both is still open.
Putting aside for the moment the Law and Order issues, in light of the coming State Election we have identified the major issue, a need for ethical and honest government as an overarching necessity.
An examination of the present Government’s decisions, activities and performance discloses the Victorians have been let down in terms of governance and good government. Some of the activities are alleged to be criminal.
The real possibility is that if the current Government is returned a number of their elected members may face criminal charges including current Minsters. If that transpires and they are convicted the Government may be forced back to the polls and we Victorians will have to foot the bill, not to mention the disruption to Governance of our State.
The CAA invites all Victorians to bear these issues in mind when casting their vote at the next election. We need good, ethical, honest and accountable government and must not settle for less.
Kelvin (Kel) Glare AO APM.
Chair, Community Advocacy Alliance Inc.
by Ivan Ray | Sep 24, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
24th September 2018
The argument proffered by Les Twentyman on how we should treat young offenders is however flawed and omits important steps in the process of accountability for young people.
The argument that Police not intervening in potentially violent events is the best strategy as intervention may increase violence is sadly a myth as it infers police are the instigators of the violence. It is however, their obligation that they must intervene to maintain law and order as their obligation is to the broader community. We have seen recently non-intervention spawns more disobedience.
The perpetrators instigate the violence by their civil disobedience. Civil compliance does not generate violence.
Often overlooked in commentary on perpetrators, particularly young people, is the Police Cautioning Program. Not to be confused with a Caution issued by the courts.
The Police Cautioning Program is in need of updating and should be properly resourced and broadened substantially. Investing well in this program will be substantially cheaper and as statistics point out more effective than the Courts. Sadly, the program has seen a trend towards less use of this important tool over recent years, which correlates to the increase in crime. Research shows that the program has the best non-recidivism rates of any of the law enforcement functions as shown in the Crime Statistics Agency research.
There is no doubt that there is an important role for Youth workers to be an integral part of this process so that the Police Cautioning Program can build on its non-recidivism rate already better than the courts best efforts.
The community wants lawlessness to be curtailed as it manifests but will support a program that helps correct young people’s behaviour without long-term consequences, but there must be some consequences.
Press reports give the impression that the number of cautions issued by the Courts is quite high so why not give the caution by Police and cut out all the waste.
We know that there is a better chance of the police caution working anyway.
by Ivan Ray | Sep 20, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
20th September 2018
Have you ever heard anything so ridiculous?
The Herald Suns and the Age today (20th Sept’18) published stories that there is a proposal to furnish State MPs allegedly involved in the Red Shirts theft by deception with a questionnaire over their involvement in the scam.
Lawyers were quick to label this proposal as highly unusual, they are very kind, ridiculous would be our take and no competent Law Enforcement Agency would even consider the idea, suggesting that this may not have come from the Investigators but somebody causing mischief.
If this was a serious consideration, and we do not believe it could be, there are number of factors that need to be explained for those who think it could be reasonable.
- Would the questionnaire be inadmissible as evidence?
- Most importantly, rule number one for any prosecution is proof of identity and a questionnaire cannot determine that.
- For the benefit of the suspect (the MP), who administers and is satisfied that a caution is understood?
- How do any answers given get tested?
- And how is a jurat administered?
No, this cannot possibly be a proposal from a competent investigation team; this is wishful thinking by somebody.
Our advice to the MP’s involved – make sure you are up early each morning as a knock on the door is coming.
by Ivan Ray | Sep 10, 2018 | Library, Uncategorized
20th September 2018
Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius on Sunday night tried to deflect the criticism by The Police Association (TPAV), Community Advocacy Alliance (CAA) and the public of the lack of police on the frontline.
It is true there is a reduction in Jewellery Shop robberies as claimed but crime does not stand still it evolves probably attributable to the offenders growing out of the behaviour rather than the success off arrests or our penal system.
Crime is not referred to as” a crime wave” by coincidence. The nature of the behaviour comes in waves. The current one being Airbnb causing the community grief. You will notice Bank robberies used to be a pandemic as did Horse stealing and Rum theft before that.
There is a shrill cacophony coming from the community. A pity Police Command and the Government has a tin ear to the issue.
