Racist commentary unhelpful: Police

Police are concerned at inflammatory social media commentary after complaints of rocks thrown at moving cars in Geraldton.

Acting Superintendent Craig Collins said police had adopted proactive and ongoing strategies to deal with the issue and recently identified a group of alleged offenders.

But he urged people to make complaints directly to police rather than on social media.

“Geraldton police continue to receive anecdotal reports of rock throwing (often via social media) while actual incidents are not being promptly reported to police,” he said.

“Social media comments of a negative, volatile or racist nature do not help with community accord in addressing this issue.”

Acting Supt Collins also warned rock throwers they could face serious criminal charges for their “reckless” behaviour.

“Don’t jeopardise your future and more importantly don’t jeopardise the safety of innocent members of the community,” he said.

Acting Supt Collins urged people aware of rock throwing incidents, or of individuals responsible, to contact police.

“If police don’t receive timely reports of rock throwing incidents we can’t target the areas,” he said.

“It is vitally important that all incidents of rock throwing, whether they result in damage or not, are reported by calling 131444.”