SNIFFER DOGS SHOULD STAY IN VICTORIA

THE perceived misuse of crime statistics in Victoria has a long history.

Right now, the ombudsman is investigating claims that police command
bowed to political pressure and released selective crime statistics
weeks before last November's state election.

News in today's Herald Sun that the use of sniffer dogs at public
events more than halved between 2009 and 2010 appears to represent an
odd set of priorities for a police force often accused of lacking
enough public presence.

And the resulting drop in drug-related crimes reveals the importance
of police endeavours in drug matters. If detection methods are
reduced, it seems plain that resulting crime numbers will drop, even
if the levels of crime being committed remain the same.

In January, an outcry followed a police decision not to use sniffer
dogs at the Big Day Out at Flemington.

Worryingly, Police Minister Peter Ryan appeared turned a blind eye,
just as his predecessors had done, and said the event was drug-free.
It was an unusually naive statement from a normally astute politician.

The reaction to Mr Ryan's comments appeared to underscore the
public's endorsement of sniffer dogs, which routinely expose dozens
of drug offences at public events.

That more than 40 revellers were busted by sniffer dogs at the Future
Music Festival in March also appeared to dispute Mr Ryan's claim.

Drug use in Australia is increasing. And public events such as music
festivals have long been recognised as lightning rods for high drug use.

The Herald Sun agrees with Drug Free Australia's Jo Baxter that the
presence of sniffer dogs represents a significant deterrent to those
tempted to break the law.

Any decision that reduces police presence, without valid and obvious
justification, stands to be condemned. It's hoped the increased use
of sniffer dogs since January signals a renewed commitment to a
successful initiative.