Mark Levy has called on NSW Police for answers as to why there is no first response police from Maitland to Tamworth.

Officers are being taken away from frontline work to transport prisoners to court, leaving small towns at risk.

In response to Mark’s comment yesterday, NSW Police Force said;

“The NSW Police Force has sufficient resources available to attend to any urgent calls from the public.  All resourcing decisions made by commanders are prioritised on that basis, including the provision for prisoner transfers. Our priority is always with public safety.

“Police first response agreements continue to be met in those areas. The public can be assured that NSW Police Force has sufficient resources available to attend to any urgent calls from the public.  All resourcing decisions made by commanders are prioritised on that basis, including the provision for prisoner transfers. Our priority is always with public safety.”

Mark speaks with NSW Minister for Police Troy Grant.

“Police do have a role at times to get people before the courts.

“But it’s got extended to where they’re now required to take them to their court appearances.

“This is having an impact on the broader availability of police to do their frontline or initial duties.

Minister Grant tells Mark the process is underway to provide additional support.

“I can give a promise to NSW. I’m a former police officer of 22 years, I’m very proudly the Minister for the cops.

“There’s nothing I won’t do to support them having the resources they need to protect the communities they serve and that’s my absolute guarantee.”

Listen to the full interview below