AN anti-terror boss is to head a new Queensland youth crime taskforce – as the state government vows to toughen laws and put more young criminals behind bars.
There’s been an outpouring of community grief and growing calls for action in the wake of the horrific hit-and-run deaths of young Brisbane couple and their unborn baby, and after a woman was killed in Townsville, allegedly by vigilantes chasing a stolen car being driven by an 18-year-old.
“The loss of four innocent lives cannot go unanswered,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.
Yesterday young couple Kate Leadbetter, Matt Field, and their unborn child Miles were farewelled by dozens of relatives and friends at a private ceremony at Mr Field’s former school, Iona College on Brisbane’s Bayside.
Their heartbroken families offered thanks for community support and compassion after the three were struck by an allegedly stolen car in Alexandra Hills while walking their dogs on Australia Day.
Police allege a 17-year-old boy was driving a stolen car when it ran a red light and collided with a truck at an intersection.
The 4WD rolled and ploughed into the couple who were crossing the road, police allege.
“Our families would like to thank everyone who joined us to say goodbye and extend our sincerest thanks to the wider community for the support and compassion it has shown us,” a family statement said
“To the first responders and police who looked after Matt, Kate and Miles, and who have supported our families throughout this difficult time, words cannot express the depth of our gratitude for the way you have cared for each and every one of us. We are incredibly grateful for everything you have done.
“Our families need time together to grieve. Our hearts go out to everyone missing them today, and we thank you for honouring their memories with us.”
In a video prepared following the tragedy a family spokesman said – “Our lives have been shattered”.
“To have lost three cherished members of our families in such a senseless and sudden way is beyond our comprehension,” the spokesman said.
Premier Palaszczuk is appointing Assistant Commissioner Cheryl Scanlon – a 33-year police veteran with a background in child safety – to head the new Youth Crime Taskforce.
The government will move to adopt GPS trackers and law changes to put more child criminals behind bars.
Scanning wands could also be introduced on the Gold Coast, to crack down on youths carrying weapons around party precincts.
