Media response - outstanding warrants

Questions asked by:  The Sunday Times

Subject:  outstanding warrants

Minister's Response:

"Let me say at the outset that all warrants are the subject of inquiry by police.  They are not ignored but it is clearly impossible to track down everyone who has an outstanding warrant.

"Some people may have died, some have moved overseas or interstate and some have changed address.

"Furthermore, I am not aware what period of time these statistics cover or how many people have warrants against them.

"For example, one person may have multiple warrants and I understand some of these date back more than 40 years.

"Of course we want to ensure anyone with outstanding warrants is caught.

"But this needs to be put in perspective. To suggest that groups of murderers or rapists are roaming the streets with warrants for their arrest is clearly nonsense.

"WA Police have advised me, for example, that no-one classed as being an "imminent risk" to the community is on the list of people with outstanding warrants.

"Police obviously prioritise warrants so that anyone seen as being a serious risk to the community is targeted.

"The vast majority of these warrants will apply to people who have minor offences such as traffic violations

"Bench warrants, for example, can be issued if someone fails to appear in court for say shoplifting.

"Police will detect if someone has an outstanding warrant if they come to their attention."

Minister's office - 9222 9211