Redfern police officers are committed to serve and protect the Aboriginal community

The article in the August edition, 'Are some Redfern Police officers failing Aboriginal citizens?' caused great concern to Redfern Police and was somewhat disheartening as we are trying very hard not to fail the Aboriginal community. Over the past few years we have worked tirelessly in the community, which includes the Aboriginal community, to address crime and anti-social behaviour. We have had a lot of success and we are currently experiencing low crime rates. I also have a very robust Aboriginal Consultative Committee in place which meets regularly. This year we are focusing on two issues: Family violence and breaking down the barriers. I believe we have been achieving some success in these areas and moving forward, albeit in small steps.

Subsequently, I strongly disagree that Redfern officers are failing to serve and protect the Aboriginal community within our Command. On the contrary, we are doing a great deal of work to ensure that we strengthen communication and understanding; improve community safety by reducing crime, violence and fear; improve cultural awareness; reduce the contact Aboriginal people have with the criminal justice system; divert Aboriginal youth from crime and anti-social behaviour; and, reduce the incidence of family violence, including sexual abuse.

I also disagree with comments suggesting that we haven't been trained adequately. There is an enormous amount of training provided to police, both at a corporate and a local level which focuses on Aboriginal cultural awareness, vulnerable communities and discrimination issues. Much of this training is provided by members of our local Aboriginal community. Not only do I disagree with the comment, but I also object on a personal level and I would like to assure the community that I am working with both police and the Aboriginal community to achieve positive improvements. I believe I am adequately trained to do this. I have been in policing for 22 years and at all times I have been operational and worked in many vulnerable communities and difficult environments. I was a Detective for 16 years and worked in areas such as Major crime and corruption, organised crime and homicide. I have a First class Honours degree in Psychology and other university qualifications. I am a University Medallist and I have lived in this area 'for over 25 years. I don't have all the answers but I feel that I am suitably equipped to achieve positive change contrary to the suggestion in the article.

The matter involving Mr Beaumont has been reported to me and it is being investigated. 

Mr Beaumont has been kept informed of the progress and I have spoken to him personally about it. There is a state-wide complaint management process in place which is endorsed by the NSW Police Executive, the Police Integrity Commission and the Ombudsman. This process is being followed in this matter.

Notwithstanding the outcome, I will not tolerate racism, discrimination or harassment under any circumstances. I have an expectation that all officers in my Command act professionally, lawfully and ethically at all times. My officers know this and if any of them act otherwise the matter will be taken very seriously and they will be dealt with severely. I understand that we have some way to go but I believe we are on the right path. I welcome any feedback and advice from any member of the community who genuinely 'wants to work with us to continue to reduce crime and build strong, positive, sustainable relationships.

[South Sydney Herald September 2006]