Tough line on bad cops
OFFICERS and recruits sentenced to a term of imprisonment will be immediately dismissed from the Queensland Police Service under new laws proposed by the Palaszczuk government.
The amendment will remove the “unacceptable” situation where dodgy cops continue to be employed by the police force while awaiting appeal, with Police Minister Mark Ryan flagging the possibility of further legislation to sack officers after disturbing allegations surfaced at the commission of inquiry. Last month, Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll called for special powers to sack cops not fit for service following revelations of vile racist comments from officers and of female police recruits being referred to as “fresh meat” by male staff members.
Mr Ryan referenced the disturbing allegations that surfaced at the inquiry but insisted new laws would need to be carefully constructed through consultation with the police service.
“Let me be very clear,” he told parliament on Thursday. “The examples that we have heard during the public hearings of the commission of inquiry are completely unacceptable.
“For people who do the wrong thing, there is no place for them being in the Queensland Police Service.
“The government will carefully consider the recommendations the commission of inquiry might make about the police discipline system and consult all stakeholders about any need for legislative amendments during this term of government.”
Mr Ryan said amendments to the Bill before parliament would enable the immediate dismissal of a police officer or recruit when they were sentenced to imprisonment for an offence.