URGENT UPDATE: Knife crime reform advocate Laraine Ludwig has achieved a significant milestone in Tasmania, handing over over 300 knife-detecting metal wands to local law enforcement. This pivotal event took place on December 19, 2023, outside the Kingston Police Station as part of her relentless drive to combat knife crime following the tragic death of her son, Reid, who was fatally stabbed in Blackmans Bay in 2019.
The newly distributed wands are the result of a successful four-month trial and are now in active use by Tasmania Police. During the trial, authorities conducted 213 searches, leading to the seizure of 54 weapons, including 42 knives. “Those figures speak for themselves,” Ms. Ludwig stated, highlighting that one in four searches resulted in a weapon being removed from the community. “That is 54 potential acts of violence prevented and 54 opportunities for lives to be saved.”
Senior Sergeant Danny Jackson of the Hobart Division noted that the mere presence of these wands has led to voluntary weapon surrenders by community members, demonstrating their effectiveness even before being used. “These wands are non-invasive, quick to use, and proven to work,” Ms. Ludwig emphasized. She expressed gratitude for the community’s support through her GoFundMe campaign, which helped fund the initiative, stating, “Nothing will bring my son back, but I will keep doing everything I can to stop other families from experiencing the same trauma.”
On this impactful day, Ms. Ludwig was joined by Jason Knight, a stabbing survivor, and his partner Laura Whittaker. Together, they aim to heighten awareness about knife crime and advocate for educational programs to be introduced in schools by 2026. “Doing the same thing every day will just mean ending up with the same result every time,” Ms. Ludwig declared. “That’s why we’re taking action.”
This initiative is a clear call for community involvement and reform, with Ms. Ludwig underscoring the importance of proactive measures. “This is the community standing up and saying they want action, not excuses,” she said, urging continued support for the fight against knife violence in Tasmania.
As the situation develops, residents and advocates alike are watching closely, hopeful that these reforms will lead to lasting change and a safer environment for all.
