Second arrest after second community ranger assaulted
A second person has been arrested following a second assault on a Fraser Coast Regional Council community ranger this year, with Council condemning the growing abuse of its staff and Councillors.
Fraser Coast Regional Council CEO Ken Diehm said police had charged a person with assault after they headbutted a community ranger while the officer was performing his duties.
“This follows another incident where a ranger was allegedly assaulted at Apex Park in Pialba while assisting a rough sleeper to register his dog for free. Police also arrested and charged this individual,” he said.
“These attacks are completely unacceptable. We take the safety of our staff seriously and will work closely with police to ensure those responsible face the full consequences of the law.”
Mr Diehm said Councillors were also facing increased verbal abuse and threats, with some no longer feeling safe hosting and attending community events alone.
“Council values open and respectful conversations with the community, but the escalation of abuse towards Councillors and staff, particularly online, is unacceptable,” he said.
“Enough is enough. It’s appalling that some of our Councillors are being targeted with threats and abuse – both online and in person.
“Our staff and Councillors are members of the community too. They deserve to be treated with respect and have the right to feel safe at work.”
Concerns over safety have also led to increased security measures at Council facilities.
“We have had to strengthen security at the Maryborough Regional Library and Customer Service Centre due to increased anti-social behaviour,” Mr Diehm said.
“Council has engaged security guards, reviewed duress and alarm procedures, provided de-escalation training and redesigned the Maryborough Customer Service Centre to improve safety.
“The safety of staff and Councillors is paramount, and Council is committed to ensuring their protection. We will not hesitate to report incidents to the police where required.”