General News
2 September, 2025
Operation Shelter continues but has had a positive result
Operation Shelter, launched by local police in July, has yielded positive results in curbing concerning behaviour among a group of youths in Horsham.
The operation was initiated following an increase in public reports of violent incidents involving young people in the area.
Inspector Caroline Johnson informed the August Horsham Community & Police Consultative Committee meeting that local police were pleased with the reduction in incidents, though further work is still required.
"We are still getting reports of youth offending, but we are being proactive in this space and will continue to be so," Insp Johnson said.
Police patrols were increased in July, with officers concentrating on areas known to be some of the trouble spots; this helped lead to five search warrants and 13 arrests in July.
It was then extended to mid-August.
Insp Johnson also commended the community for reporting these matters to the police, which had helped them act swiftly for the safety of all concerned.
"The sooner we know, the sooner we can act," she said.
Sergeant Mick O'Dwyer added that the operation's success was multifaceted.
"Operation Shelter has sent the message that there are consequences to certain behaviours, and if that has shown a reduction in public nuisance behaviours, it is a positive thing," he said.
Operation Shelter will continue, but there will be a shift towards engagement as incidents decrease.
However, increased patrols will continue, and police intend to remain vigilant in this matter.
The positive result of engagement is providing support, keeping youth out of the legal system, and helping direct them to a productive future.
"Resentment can build when children of 10 and 12 are in the system at that age, and that can be a complex matter as all youth offending is," Insp Johnson said.
"So it is important that we follow this through in the best way possible."
Parents became alarmed after incidents involving their children in the CBD had resulted in ongoing emotional issues and days off school after they had been confronted and harassed by groups of youths.
They took to social media expressing their concerns, which alerted police to the extent of the issues.
Horsham police urged members of the public to report the incidents to them.