A political row has erupted in Queensland over crime statistics, with Opposition Leader David Crisafulli claiming a significant drop in the state's victim rate, while Labor accuses him of selectively using data to mislead the public.
The Claims and Counterclaims
Crisafulli presented figures suggesting Queensland's crime victim rate had fallen by 8% over the past year, positioning it as a win for community safety. However, the Labor government swiftly dismissed the claims, arguing the opposition had cherry-picked data while ignoring rising offences in key categories.
Labor's Rebuttal
Government ministers pointed to increases in serious assaults and property crimes, accusing Crisafulli of presenting an incomplete picture. "Selective statistics don't make communities safer," one Labor spokesperson stated.
Expert Analysis
Independent criminologists suggest both sides may be interpreting the data differently, with seasonal variations and reporting changes potentially affecting the numbers. "Crime statistics require nuanced interpretation," noted one academic.
