City of Canning Proposes $10,000 Rewards to Combat Vandalism and Illegal Activities
The City of Canning is set to introduce a bold new initiative, offering cash rewards of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the successful prosecution of individuals responsible for damaging city property, including buildings and trees, as well as illegal dumping, graffiti, and the use of unlicensed or stolen motorbikes. This proposal, presented by Mayor Patrick Hall at a recent council meeting, aims to tackle what he describes as "wanton vandalism and destruction" that often goes unpunished.
Unanimous Support with Cautions
The motion received unanimous backing from the council, but not without reservations. Councillor Michelle Hurn expressed concerns about the high value of the reward, warning against the potential development of a "low-scale US bounty hunter scenario" if residents take matters into their own hands to identify perpetrators. Mayor Hall clarified that the reward amounts could be adjusted based on the severity of the offence, with specific details to be finalized by council and staff before a draft policy is presented in June.
Addressing Community Frustration
Mayor Hall highlighted growing community frustration over ongoing criminal activities, such as the destruction of newly planted trees, including 35 almond trees in Canning Vale and damage at Nurdi and Adenia parks, as well as illegal motorbike riding in the Canning River Regional Park. He emphasized that police resources are stretched thin, making it difficult to investigate these "incredibly minor" offences on the scale of criminality. "They are no longer going to send detectives and a forensic team to investigate damaged trees," he stated, noting that this is not a criticism of police but a recognition of escalating crime and low priority for such incidents.
Local Government's Role in Community Protection
In response, the City of Canning has already invested in measures like CCTV, quadrupled funding for its security incentive scheme, and supported police with numberplate recognition initiatives. Mayor Hall asserted that local authorities have a crucial role in protecting the community, and this reward scheme demonstrates their commitment to "leave no stone unturned" in prosecuting offenders. Councillor Joanne Page supported the motion but raised concerns about the financial amounts, citing other councils with lower rewards or annual caps.
Viability and Implementation Concerns
Councillor Hurn questioned the viability of the scheme, particularly how city officers would determine if information led to a successful prosecution and the potential for interpersonal conflict or aggression due to high rewards. Chief Executive Michael Littleton explained that the motion is currently gauging council support, with full details yet to be developed. If approved, staff will create a range of options for consideration before any policy is drafted.
Expanding the Scope to Illegal Motorbikes
Deputy Mayor Mark Bain amended the motion to include illegal motorcycle activity, describing off-road motorbikes as a "scourge" in the Canning River Regional Park, roads, and footpaths. He suggested that financial incentives could motivate neighbours to provide information or residents to share CCTV footage, such as for cases of hazardous waste dumping on verges. This addition underscores the city's comprehensive approach to addressing various forms of antisocial behaviour.
The City of Canning's proposal reflects a proactive stance in fostering community unity and safety, with the goal of deterring criminal activities through collaborative efforts and financial incentives.
