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The Canberra Times
The Canberra Times
National
Lucy Bladen

ACT Policing 'largely pleased' with NYE behaviour despite arrests

More than 20 were arrested over New Year's Eve but police were "largely pleased" with crowd behaviour. Picture: Karleen Minney

Several people were arrested by ACT Policing during New Year's Eve celebrations in the territory but police were "largely pleased" with revellers during subdued celebrations.

Police took 17 people into protective custody for intoxication, including three juveniles.

One person was charged with assaulting police and another was charged with possessing a knife in a public space.

As well, one person was charged for unlicensed driving and another for graffiti offences.

More than 650 roadside breath tests were undertaken on the night but only one person was over the limit, it was a p-plater who had their license immediately revoked.

Another person was charged for drug driving.

Police were out in force on New Year's Eve but unlike previous years one of their main jobs was to ensure compliance with social distancing restrictions.

But Superintendent Corey Heldon said no venues had breached these restrictions.

"Police had a presence in all town centres across Canberra, and while we did have some issues to deal with, on the whole the crowds were well behaved," Superintendent Heldon said.

"We did notice quite a reduction in crowd numbers compared to previous years, which is encouraging that Canberrans appeared to heed the advice to celebrate the New Year in a COVID-safe way.

"Police were also conducting checks to ensure venues were complying with social distancing requirements, and I'm pleased that no venues were found to be in breach of these restrictions."

Superintendent Heldon also remained drivers that double demerits will stay in place until 11.59pm Sunday January 3.

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