theage: State plans new crime body
The Age reports on a Victorian state government proposal for a new crime commission, which would be given coercive interrogation powers. The commission would accompany new laws allowing the siezure of assets from suspected criminals, and increased DNA testing powers.
The proposed body would be given coercive powers to demand sworn testimony from suspected organised crime figures, and have authority to review police investigations. [...] One model under discussion is based on the NSW Crime Commission, in operation since 1986. Under the NSW system, a board of management - including the police minister, the chief commissioner and the head of the commission - determine targets for investigation. [...] Areas likely to be investigated would include drug trafficking, illegal abalone fishing and car-stealing gangs. The commission would target major local criminals who would not be subjected to scrutiny by the National Crime Authority's successor - the Australian Crime Commission. [...] The initiative would be a part of the government's pre-election law and order package, which would include increased DNA-gathering powers, tougher asset-seizure laws and a possible million dollar murder reward pool. (see theage.com.au)A very brief "fact sheet" lists the proposed commission's roles:
- Investigate organised and serious crime. - Review specific police investigations. - Demand answers from suspects in secret hearings. - Gather evidence for criminal cases. - Report to parliament on the state of organised crime. (see theage.com.au)