On patrol: Operational Response Unit’s Sergeant Robert Jamieson, First Constable Simon Woodhouse and Constable Joshua Robinson with Corio Police Senior Sergeant Michael Reid. Picture: Tommy Ritchie 75613
ERIN PEARSON
TWENTY specially trained police have swooped on Corio like a scene from TV show Rush.
Police said the Operational Response Unit (ORU) members were on a mission to fight crime and increase safety.
First Constable Simon Woodhouse said the unit, on which the TV series was based, aimed to be “highly visible” during its brief deployments.
The officers attended public order duties including alcohol-related violence, assaults and thefts, Const Woodhouse said.
They also visited Corio Shopping Centre and other public spaces to restore confidence among residents after the burned body of Drysdale’s Russell Hammond was discovered on a vacant block earlier this month. Police have charged two men with his murder.
“We’re here to engage with people out and about and talk to them about their concerns as well as attend call-outs,” Const Woodhouse said.
“It’s important that communities know they’re not forgotten about when crimes put them on the news.
“We’re mindful of these impacts on residents.”
