The zero-tolerance approach: do we really need to get ‘tough on crime’?
In 1989, President Bush proclaimed “The rules have changed: if you sell drugs, you will be caught, and when you’re caught, you will be prosecuted; and once you’re convicted, you will do time.” Many have declared the “war on drugs”...
Six Police Charged following an ICAC Investigation
The latest in a long string of ICAC investigations has surfaced in South Australia. Today’s headlines announced that six South Australian police officers were charged with serious offences and faced court today. The investigation by ICAC and the state’s anti-corruption...
Legalisation of Cannabis Moves Closer
The campaign to legalise cannabis for medical purposes has taken an unexpected leap forward with support from the prime minister, and a clinical trial to go ahead in NSW. Prime Minister Tony Abbott wrote a letter to well known talkback...
What penalties do the courts really hand-down for drug possession charges?
Ever wondered what the penalties are for drug possession ? Not the maximum penalties – but the penalties that are really handed-down by the courts? It might surprise you that most people who are guilty of drug possession receive criminal...
Will Australia ever ban cigarettes?
The tobacco industry has millions of dollars to invest in marketing and lobbying, and increasingly tough government measures are forcing cigarette companies to be inventive to stay in the market. The Daily Telegraph recently reported that one cigarette brand, British...
Drugs and the white collar sector
A record number of 86,918 drug seizures were made in Australia according to the latest Illicit Drug Data Report by the Australian Crime Commission. But not all of these will make front page headlines or prime time news. The population...
Can I make a request for criminal charges to be dropped?
Are you facing criminal or traffic charges? You may not be aware that you have the right to apply for your charges to be changed, reduced in number or dropped altogether by making written ‘representations’ to the Local Area Commander...
Drug Addiction and Crime Affects People From All Backgrounds
The stereotypical drug addict is usually depicted as being from a low income or disadvantaged background, but drug addiction is far more widespread than that and affects people from all walks of life. Drug addiction also unfortunately often leads to...
Drug and Alcohol Programs for Inmates at Cessnock Jail
Drug and alcohol problems can be a significant contributor to levels of offending, and many jails in NSW recognise this and provide support and rehabilitation programs for inmates who suffer from addictions. If you know someone who has a substance...
Euthanasia – Will it Finally be Made Legal in Australia?
Recent events have led to a vast amount of media attention being placed on issues surrounding euthanasia and the law in Australia. Although the euthanasia debate has been ongoing for a number of years, it has recently been reignited due...
