The new commander for the Mid North Coast Police District says he would like to initiate a major crackdown on domestic violence while in the top job.
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"I'm taking a really strong stance on domestic violence," Superintendent Shane Cribb said.
"I'm speaking with police officers everyday about having a zero tolerance when it comes to this issue.
"If you want to be a perpetrator of domestic violence, rest assured we'll take appropriate action.
Supt Cribb has recently stepped up into the role after holding the position for other districts within the state.
Supt Cribb said he's personally never experienced domestic violence but there's no excuse for the disgraceful act.
"We really need to encourage those victims to come forward and for support networks to be in place to link them to," he said.
Supt Cribb joined the force about 30 years ago after choosing not to pursue a career path as a butcher.
The Taree local was an inspector for the Mid North Coast Police District about seven years ago, left to work in Orange and then returned to the Forster/Taree area.
He's back to take up the top position for the Mid North Coast Police District.
"I'm very happy to be here. I'm excited," he said.
Supt Cribb praised police officers who work hard across the region to serve and protect the community.
His aim is for officers to have a greater community presence.
"I want people to see the police on the street," he said.
Supt Cribb urged members of the community to voice any concerns or issues they might have.
"It's really important we get the opportunity to hear from the public about what those concerns are," he said.
"If I can do something to help them then that's what I'll do."
Supt Cribb said he'll also aim to establish greater communication across a number of agencies to work to combat youth crime.
He's looking forward to working with all police officers within the district to ensure they are happy to attend work each day.
"It's not about sitting in the office, being king of the castle and giving out orders," Supt Cribb said.
"It's about engaging all ranks and all sections."
Supt Cribb takes over the position of district commander from Superintendent Paul Fehon, who was named a Paul Harris Fellow in 2019.