POLICE hope to frustrate violent offenders in the Western Region, by expanding a program to limit their access to firearms.
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Victoria Police plans to target violent crime by increasingly using Firearm Prohibition Orders against those who pose a serious risk to the community.
Thirteen Firearms Prohibition Orders have been served in the Western Region since they were introduced in May 2018.
These orders forbid a person from possessing or using firearms or firearm related items.
The Wimmera is part of the western region.
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An expansion of the scheme in the Western Region will begin with further training of delegates, to allow for increased use state-wide. This will begin in Geelong.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Deb Robertson said the 13 FPOs served in the Western Region represented a significant step forward in capacity to target use of illicit firearms.
"I was based at Crime Command when the FPOs were introduced, so I saw first-hand the impact they had on criminals and their ability to access, store and carry illicit firearms," she said.
"I got to hear about some of the frustration that was being expressed by criminals who were now feeling the pressure of a significant increase in penalties for carrying and storing illicit firearms.
"Coming to Western Region, I could immediately see what the benefits would be locally, and we were very keen to be one of the first areas within Victoria Police to be involved in the expansion of the scheme."
Firearms prohibition orders are designed to help police target an reduce firearm-related crime.
The orders prevent a person from acquiring, possessing or using a firearm, or firearm related items. Those under a FPO are also forbidden from entering certain premises, such as firearms dealerships and shooting ranges.
They were introduced to Victoria in May 2018. Since then police have served 250 FPOs to violent offenders in Victoria, including members of outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Once an FPO is served, the person is searched and a search is conducted of their premises and vehicle.
The order is linked directly to a person, meaning police can search any property where the individual is located.
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Police can also search a person who is in the company of the individual under the order, if they reasonably suspect the person has a firearm or firearm -related item in their possession.
Once served a FPO remains in effect for 10 years for an adult, five for children.
An FPO can only be issued if it is in the public interest because of the criminal history of the individual, the behaviour of the individual, the people with whom the individual associates or the basis of information known to the Chief Commissioner that suggests the individual may pose a threat or risk to public safety.
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