1 December 2004
Police Search Powers Strengthened
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Paul Henderson MLA
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services
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Police Minister Paul Henderson will introduce legislation into the Northern Territory Parliament today to strengthen the search warrant powers available to police.
The Police Administration Amendment Act 2004 contains a range of miscellaneous amendments.
“The Martin Government is giving police the tools they need to do their job, and this legislation will strengthen police powers to seize drug precursors and drug manufacturing equipment when executing a search warrant for illicit drugs,” Mr Henderson said.
“The changes will also allow police to temporarily detain people found at premises during a non-drug search warrant.
“This move will limit the challenges faced by police in carrying out searches, including preventing suspects tipping off associates and reducing the risk of evidence being taken away from the scene unlawfully.
“While this power already exists in relation to search warrants issued for illicit drugs, this legislation will correct the anomaly that means it currently does not apply to non-drug related searches.”
The legislation also puts into place the Government’s previously announced intention to reform the vicarious liability provisions applying to civil court proceedings that can be brought against NT Police and individual officers.
Other measures in the legislation include:
- Extending the Commissioner’s power of delegation;
- Allowing the Commissioner the power to alter a period of probation;
- Other provisions clarifying police search powers.
- Minor amendments to remove reference to redundant clauses;
“This legislation reflects the Government’s desire to the see the Police Administration Act reflect current needs of the Police Force and the fight against crime,” said Mr Henderson.