By Ian Neubauer
Victorian Police have lauded new legislation that gives them special powers to ban individuals suspected of committing an offence from the CBD, Chapel Street and licensed venues in those areas for a period of 24 hours.
The banning orders were issued for a variety of public offences, including drunk and disorderly, assault, property damage, trespassing and the carrying of prohibited weapons.
Twenty-three individuals have been issued with banning notices since the legislation came into effect on December 18. Three were females aged 27 to 37 and the remainder were males aged 14 to 43.
Melbourne West Acting Senior Sergeant Steven Cooper said most individuals issued with banning orders had complied with the law.
“While the legislation is still relatively new, the majority of people have gone home after being issued a notice and we are confident that it will assist us in curbing the number of public order offences,” he said. “A small number of people have, however, remained in the area after being issued a banning notice and, as a result, have received a court summons and now face a fine of up to $6000.”