Screentime’s Police Ten 7 television series has wrapped up another successful year with calls from viewers helping police make 58 arrests.
Of the 155 cases featured in this year’s series, 39 arrests were the direct result of viewer’s calls. Information generated through the programme helped advance other inquiries leading to the 58 arrests in total.
Charges include those relating to violent deaths, aggravated robbery, sexually motivated assault, family violence, burglary, theft and driving behaviour offending.
Commissioner Peter Marshall says that Police Ten 7 has in ten years become firmly established in the New Zealand television viewer watching psyche and is another great way for police to engage with the public.
“The public are another set of eyes and ears for what is happening in communities. Viewer response to appeals for information through Police Ten 7 speaks volumes for Screentime’s approach, the way in which victim’s needs are taken into account.
“The programme demonstrates public willingness to work with us, bring offenders to account, even if the person sought is a family member or friend.”
The Commissioner said that preventing crime is the key priority for police. Everyone has the right to be safe and feel safe in homes, businesses or in other day to day activities.
“When that right is breached, it’s gratifying to know that the partnerships built up over the years encourage people to speak up and make a difference.”
Screentime Executive Director Philly de Lacey says: “We are thrilled to create a programme with the New Zealand Police that has a positive impact in our community.
“It is a testament to all the officers who take part in Ten 7 that 360 episodes have now screened over 11 years and the series is still one of the most popular programmes on New Zealand television. I for one am in awe of the work the police do, and I am hugely grateful to all the Police who work tirelessly to keep us kiwis safe.”
Around 560 arrests have been made through Police Ten 7 in 11 years. The programme will be back on air on TV2 in February next year.
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Contact: Kaye Calder, Senior Communications Adviser, Public Affairs, Police National HQ. Telephone: 04 460 2986 or 027 241 6305.